Author
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Reicosky, Donald |
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Submitted to: Colorado Conservation Tillage Association Annual Conference Proceedings
Publication Type: Proceedings Publication Acceptance Date: 2/7/2001 Publication Date: N/A Citation: N/A Interpretive Summary: Technical Abstract: Concern for soil quality and related environmental issues requires new knowledge to minimize agriculture's impact on the environment. The impact of broad area tillage or soil disturbance on soil carbon and carbon dioxide loss suggests possible improvements with mulch between the rows and less intensive strip tillage to prepare a narrow seedbed. The objective was to quantify short-term tillage-induced CO2 loss after strip tillage tools. Various strip tillage tools, spaced at 76 cm, were used and gas exchange measured with a large portable chamber. Gas exchange was measured regularly for 6 hours and then at 24 and 48 hours. No-till had the lowest CO2 flux during the study and moldboard plow had the highest immediately after tillage that declined as the soil dried. Other forms of strip tillage had an initial flush related to tillage intensity that was intermediate between these extremes, with both the 5- and 24-hour cumulative losses related to soil volume disturbed by the tillage tools. Reducing the volume of soil disturbed by tillage and direct seeding should enhance soil and air quality by increasing soil carbon content. Incorporating C storage in conservation planning demonstrates concern for our global resources and our future quality of life. These results suggest soil and environmental benefits of strip tillage should be considered in soil management decisions. |
