Investigating the benefits of tectonite dust as an amendment for bark substrates and dryland crops

Authors: NACKLEY, LLOYD - Oregon State University; VAN LEHMAN, LUKE - Oregon State University; VAN LEHMAN, OWEN - Oregon State University; Owen Jr, James - Jim; Scagel, Carolyn

Submitted to: Plants
Publication Type: Peer Reviewed Journal
Publication Acceptance Date: 12/27/2023
Publication Date: 1/2/2024
Citation: Nackley, L., Van Lehman, L., Van Lehman, O., Owen Jr, J.S., Scagel, C.F. 2024. Investigating the benefits of tectonite dust as an amendment for bark substrates and dryland crops. Plants. https://doi.org/10.3390/plants13010126.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.3390/plants13010126

Interpretive Summary: The use of waste byproducts in agriculture can contribute to broader sustainability goals, such as reducing waste and greenhouse gas emissions. This study investigates the potential benefits of using tectonite dust as a soil amendment in central Oregon. Tectonite, a rare mineral byproduct of the Warm Springs Composite Products Company, has unique properties that can enhance soil fertility and water-holding capacity. Small-scale trials showed positive growth responses in wheat height and biomass, indicating improved early growth and establishment. Farm-scale experiments confirmed increased grain yields with tectonite application. These findings suggest that tectonite enhances soil health and crop yields by improving structure, nutrient availability, and water retention. This study highlights the importance of utilizing waste byproducts in agriculture to achieve environmental and economic sustainability. Tectonite has the potential to play a significant role in addressing water scarcity and enhancing crop productivity in arid regions like central Oregon.

Technical Abstract: This study investigates the potential benefits of using tectonite dust as a soil amendment in central Oregon. Tectonite, a rare mineral byproduct of the Warm Springs Composite Products Company, has unique properties that can enhance soil fertility and water-holding capacity. The study includes analyses of tectonite's physical and chemical properties, small-scale growth trials, and farm-scale experiments to measure grain yield. Physical property analysis demonstrated that tectonite increased water-holding capacity and improved soil structure when added to bark substrates. Responses varied in mineral soils, affecting air space and water-holding capacity. Small-scale trials showed positive growth responses in wheat height and biomass, indicating improved early growth and establishment. Farm-scale experiments confirmed increased grain yields with tectonite application. These findings suggest that tectonite enhances soil health and crop yields by improving structure, nutrient availability, and water retention. Careful sourcing and testing are necessary to address potential heavy metal contamination risks. Using tectonite as a soil amendment aligns with sustainability goals, reducing waste and greenhouse gas emissions. It may also offer cost savings compared to synthetic fertilizers and stimulate the local economy. Further research is needed to understand the long-term effects of tectonite on edible crops and heavy metal content. Nevertheless, tectonite shows promise as a sustainable soil amendment for promoting agriculture in central Oregon. By exploring its potential benefits, farmers can enhance soil fertility, improve water-use efficiency, and contribute to a more sustainable agricultural system. This study highlights the importance of utilizing waste byproducts in agriculture to achieve environmental and economic sustainability. Tectonite has the potential to play a significant role in addressing water scarcity and enhancing crop productivity in arid regions like central Oregon.