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Title: HACIA UN MENEJO SOSTENIBLE DEL SUELO POR MEDIO DE LABRANZA DE CONSERVACION

Author
item Bradford, Joe
item Smart, James
item WIEGAND, CRAIG - RETIRED-USDA-ARS

Submitted to: Proceedings Conferencia Expo Campo Michoacan
Publication Type: Proceedings
Publication Acceptance Date: 7/14/1999
Publication Date: N/A
Citation: N/A

Interpretive Summary: This manuscript gives basic instructions to the layman on procedures for beginning a no-till system for crop production in northern Mexico and south Texas. The manuscript discusses problems and benefits of implementing no tillage systems under subtropical, semi-arid climates. By changing to conservation tillage, both soil and water conservation are achieved and net tfarm returns are increased.

Technical Abstract: In the semi-arid, subtropical climate of south Texas and northern Mexico, low rainfall limits crop production. By adopting conservation tillage and residue management practices, the farmer can increase water use efficiency of limited rainfall through positive effects of surface residue on water infiltration, water storage and soil water evaporation. Furthermore, through conservation tillage, wind and water erosion are reduced, soil degradation is halted and crop profitability is increased. Long-term beneficial effects of conservation tillage include an increase in soil organic matter and soil health. In this review article, we discuss problems in implementing conservation tillage systems, the benefits of a successful system and how sustainability is promoted.