Showing papers in "Soil Science in 2017"

Soil Complexity and Pedogenesis

Abstract: This paper reviews recent developments in studies of soil complexity, focusing on the variability of soil types within soil landscapes. Changes in soil complexity are directly related to divergent and convergent pedogenesis and to dynamical stability and chaos. Accordingly, strong links exis

Estimation of Saturated Soil Paste Salinity From Soil-Water Extracts

Abstract: It is essential to estimate soil salinity with an effective and easy-to-use method. Many laboratories determine soil salinity using a measurement of electrical conductivity (EC) with 1:2.5 or 1:5 soil-water extracts (EC1:2.5, EC1:5) because it is a simpler procedure than the standard saturat

Nutrient Leaching and Retention in Riparian Soils as Influenced by Rice Husk Biochar Addition

Abstract: Biochar application to agricultural soils has been reported to reduce nutrient leaching and ameliorate degraded soils. However, few studies exist that verify decreased nutrient leaching in biochar-amended riparian soils or that identify the mechanism for nutrient retention. Column leaching experiments were conducted to investigate the effects on nutrient leaching and retention of rice husk biochar additions at varying rates (0%, 1%, 2%, 5%, and 10% by weight) following application of fertilizer (NH4NO3 and KH2PO4) to a subtropical riparian soil from the Taihu Lake watershed of China over a 24-week incubation. We found that increasing levels of biochar decreased cumulative amounts of leachate NH4-N by 28 to 63%, NO3-N by 23% to 84% and dissolved organic nitrogen by 15% to 46%, while increasing leaching of PO4-P by 43% to 108%. Total nitrogen (N) and available phosphorus (P) contents significantly increased in the biochar-amended soil. The significant increase in soil microbial biomass N after biochar addition suggests that fertilizer N was retained by microbial cycling. The decrease in NH4-N and increase in NO3-N in biochar-amended soil imply that nitrification was enhanced with biochar addition. Biochar treatments increased soil available P due either to the release of soluble P from biochar or to enhanced P mineralization by soil microbial biomass. These results indicate that addition of biochar increased the capacity of the riparian soil studied to provide plant available nutrients and reduce N leaching.

Environmental risk assessment as a new basis for evaluation of soil contamination in Polish law

Abstract: This paper discusses new regulations on the assessment of soil contamination and the principle rules for remediation of contaminated sites included in the Environmental Protection Act, amended in 2014., as well as in related implementing legislation of 2016. In place of soil quality standards and the requirement to bring soil to the state that meets the standards, the new rules of contamination assessment and new remediation criteria have been introduced, based on environmental risk assessment. Similar rules are becoming increasingly common in many countries. This article provides general knowledge on the principles for the assessment of environmental risks associated with soil contamination, taking into account its two fundamental aspects: human health risk and environmental risk. On this background, the paper presents the principles of the assessment on soil contamination contained in the Regulation 1395 (2016) of the Minister of the Environment, as well as the rules for the choice of remediation method and design of remedial actions that should be basically aimed to eliminate the risk to human health and the environment.

Effect of Antecedent Soil Water on Preferential Flow in Four Soybean Plots in Southwestern China

Abstract: Antecedent soil water exerts considerable influence on the infiltration rate and distribution of preferential flow. Effects of antecedent soil water on preferential flow were investigated through dye experiments with Brilliant Blue FCF (C.I. Food Blue 2) in four soybean plots with low (LWC) and high (HWC) antecedent soil water levels. Changes in soil water were measured during the dye experiments. Horizontal and vertical soil slices were exposed every 10 cm approximately 24 h after the dye tracer application, and staining ratios (stained area to total area) were calculated from photographs. This study demonstrated that the dye tracer infiltrated to a mean depth of 56 cm at an average rate of 1,455 mm h−1 in the LWC plots and to a mean depth of 34 cm and at an average rate of 523 mm h−1 in the HWC plots. Finger flow occurred in Layer B of the LWC plots, possibly resulting in their deeper infiltration depth. The staining ratio in each layer of the LWC plots was generally larger than the corresponding one of the HWC plots. In both the LWC and HWC plots, the average staining ratios decreased with soil depth and exhibited a sharp decrease from Horizon A to B. The largest effect of antecedent soil water on dye tracer movement was found in Layer B. The results indicated that preferential flow was substantial under conditions of low antecedent soil water content in the conditions found in southwestern China. These results could be helpful in improving crop yields and reducing pollution of shallow groundwater by leading farmers to irrigate and till the soil surface with the appropriate frequency.

Long-term Stability of Trace Element Concentrations in a Spontaneously Vegetated Urban Brownfield With Anthropogenic Soils

Abstract: ABSTRACT Trace element (TE) contamination of soil is a persistent problem in urban environments, particularly hindering the reuse of abandoned land. While phytostabilization is a cost-effective approach to managing TE-contaminated soil, little is known about the effects of these practices on soil TE concentrations decades after plant establishment. This study analyzes soil data collected from 1995, 2005, and 2015 (28, 38, and 48 years since site abandonment) in a spontaneously vegetated urban brownfield contaminated with As, Cr, Cu, Pb, and Zn. No change in concentration of any of these TE in the upper 30 cm of soil at this site was observed from 1995 to 2005. However, from 2005 to 2015, As and Cr concentrations increased in the soil C1 horizon at this site (approximately 5- to 25-cm depth), whereas Cu, Pb, and Zn remained stable. We propose that the observed increases in As and Cr resulted from downward migration from the upper 5 cm of soil and subsequent immobilization in the C1 horizon. Increasing soil pH from 2005 to 2015 could have increased As and Cr solubility, while reducing Cu, Pb, and Zn solubility. In addition, significant correlations were found between the five TE and Fe or Mn, which are known to play a role in TE sorption. This study shows the ability of a phytostabilization site to retain some TE in its upper soil horizons for several decades following plant community establishment, although continued monitoring is needed to ensure soil conditions continue to favor stability.

Variability of morphological, physical and chemical properties of soils derived from carbonate-rich parent material in the Pieniny Mountains (south Poland).

Abstract: Abstract Carbonate-rich soils are characterized by great diversity in content of carbonate and non-carbonate mineral substances in soil substrate which largely influences soil properties. The study presents the analysis results of four soil profiles located at the area of Pieniny National Park. The aim of this study was to characterize and classify the soils developed from the mixture of carbonate and carbonate-rich rock material, formerly classified as pararendzinas. It was achieved by determination of morphological, physical, and chemical properties, as well as mineralogical composition of selected carbonate-rich soils occurring in the Polish part of the Pieniny Mts. Soils were classified as typical chernozemic rendzina (P1), typical eutrophic brown soils (P2, P4), as well as typical pararendzina (P3) according to Polish Soil Classification (2011). The parent material of studied soils P1, P2 and P4 were slope covers, with a dominant share of sandstone and minor share of limestone, whereas soil P3 was formed from variegated shale cut with multiple calcite veins. Soils were characterized by stable aggregate structure: crumby, angular blocky and subangular blocky. They were medium or strong skeletal, mostly with loam texture with great share of silt fraction. CaCO3 content in genetic horizons ranged from 0.0 to 703.0 g·kg-1. The reaction of studied soils was from weakly acidic to alkaline. Analysed soils were characterized by very high base saturation. Among determined exchangeable cations, Ca2+ ions had the biggest share in all analysed profile. High base saturation, as well as high content of calcium carbonate was accompanied by content of organic matter and percentage content of clay fraction. Taking into consideration determined chemical and physical properties, it can be found that investigated soils were influenced by not only the in-situ weathering material but also by rock material which have been transported and deposited as a result of slope processes. Furthermore, the lack or lower content of CaCO3 in surface and middle part of analysed soil profiles was most likely a result of the impoverishment of rock material during the transport on the slope.

Suitability of Complex Extractants for Assessment of Available Soil Zinc for Nutrition of Rice (Oryza sativa L.) in Subtropical India

Abstract: We evaluated the efficiency of six complex extractants such as diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid (DTPA), Mehlich 3, ammonium bicarbonate–DTPA (AB-DTPA), modified Morgan, Morgan and diaminocyclohexanetetracetic acid-glycerol (CDTA) as to their suitability for assessing available zinc (Zn) status in soils of the Inceptisols and Alfisols soil orders for nutrition of rice (Oryza sativa L.). Twenty soils from each of the two soil orders were analyzed for extractable Zn content and used to grow rice with three levels of Zn (0, 5, and 10 kg ha−1). The relative efficiency of the Zn extractants followed the order AB-DTPA > Mehlich 3 > DTPA > CDTA > modified Morgan > Morgan in soils from the Inceptisols soil order and Mehlich 3 > AB-DTPA > modified Morgan > DTPA > Morgan > CDTA in soils classified as Alfisols. The extractable soil Zn was significantly correlated with soil organic C and clay content. All the soils showed significant response to Zn application in terms of increases in dry matter yield, Zn concentration, and plant uptake. Of the six extractants tested, AB-DTPA and Mehlich 3 were the best for assessing plant available Zn contents for nutrition of rice. The critical limits of Mehlich 3 and AB-DTPA extractants for getting higher responses of rice to Zn application were 1.2 and 1.0 μg g−1 in Inceptisols and 2.0 and 1.5 μg g−1 in Alfisols, respectively.

Characterization of Antibiotic Resistance in Enterobacteriaceae From Agricultural Manure and Soil in Portugal

Abstract: ABSTRACT Intensive livestock production uses antibiotics to treat and prevent infectious diseases. Antibiotics are expelled unaltered in animal manure, which is often used as a fertilizer. This practice spreads antibiotic residues and antibiotic-resistant bacteria and their genes into the soil. These resistance determinants affect soil microbial communities, raising concerns about the potential environmental and public health risks. This study aims to characterize soil contaminated with antibiotic resistant bacteria and the putative role played by manure as a vector for these resistance determinants. Six poultry and dairy cattle farms in the central region of Portugal were sampled. Ampicillin-resistant Enterobacteriaceae isolates from manure and manured-soil samples were tested for their resistance profile to 13 antibiotics and the presence of tetracycline and sulfonamide resistance genes. High multidrug resistance rates (>70%) were observed in both manure and soil samples. This resistance was higher in the poultry samples; manured-soil isolates were more resistant to cefoxitin (91.7%), sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim (79.2%), chloramphenicol (79.2%), and to a lesser extent tetracycline (12.5%). Manure isolates have high resistance frequency to tetracycline (73.9%), amoxicillin with clavulanic acid (66.0%), chloramphenicol (65.3%), and sulfamethoxazole with trimethoprim (36.5%). Manure isolates revealed high frequency of tet(A), sul1, and sul3 genes. The multiple antibiotic resistance index reveals a putative risk of soil contamination due to antibiotic exposure. The results obtained are important for soil management regarding resistance determinants spread through agricultural practices. To our knowledge, this is the first study of tetracycline and sulfonamide resistance in Portuguese manure and soil.

Effects of Land Use Change on Soil Quality Indicators in Forest Landscapes of the Western Amazon

Abstract: Western Amazon has the highest forest biodiversity in the world; however, farming, pasture, or subsistence farming has cleared extensive forest areas, impacting soil quality. This study evaluates the variations in soil quality indicators such as organic carbon (OC), NH4+, available P, soil t

Coastal acid sulphate soils in Poland: a review

Abstract: Abstract This paper presents the state of knowledge on coastal acid sulphate soils in Poland. The properties of these soils are closely related to the influence of brackish water from the Baltic Sea, high accumulation of organic matter and human activity. The obtained results demonstrate that the sulphide accumulation in soils refers to a relatively small areas of the Polish coastal zone with the unique and very valuable habitats. They require an adequate regulation of the water relations to avoid the risk of strong soil acidification and environmental pollution by heavy metals. Currently, there are no relevant criteria for classification of acid sulphate soil materials in the Polish Soil Classification (2011). Therefore, based on the presented data, the authors proposed to identify these features at the lower classification level (for different soil types). The criteria for the Thionic and Sulfidic qualifiers used in the WRB classification (IUSS Working Group WRB 2015) could be accepted for this purpose.

Effects of Dairy Slurry Injection on Carbon and Nitrogen Cycling

Abstract: Surface broadcast of dairy slurry is a common practice; however, concerns over nuisance odors and nutrient losses have prompted research into alternatives. Manure injection is one practice that addresses these concerns but is not widely adopted. Therefore, two studies were conducted to quantify NH3-N loss by volatilization, impacts on soil N cycling, and microbial response between surface broadcast and subsurface injection of dairy slurry. A constant air flow volatilization chamber system measured NH3-N losses and soil inorganic N, mineralizable carbon, and active microbial biomass. A 40-day static air incubation was performed to study nitrogen transformations over a longer period after application. Statistical significance was evaluated at the α = 0.05 level. In the volatilization study, subsurface injection reduced NH3-N losses by 98% and 87% in a clay loam and sandy loam, respectively, resulting in greater soil inorganic nitrogen compared with surface application. There were no significant differences in active microbial biomass between treatments. Surface application prompted greater microbial respiration in the sandy loam, but there were no significant differences between treatments in the clay loam. In the static incubation study, differences in soil NO3-N became significant on day 28, and by day 40, injection showed increases in soil NO3-N of 13% and 26% in the sandy loam and clay loam, respectively, relative to surface application. While the effect of subsurface injection on soil microbial response was unclear, it remains a tool that can greatly reduce NH3-N losses by volatilization and increase soil plant available nitrogen.

Effect of forest fire on changes in the content of total and available forms of selected heavy metals and catalase activity in soil

Abstract: The aim of the paper was to assess the effect of forest fire on the content of total and available forms of zinc, copper, lead, nickel and cadmium, as well as the activity of catalase in soil. The study was performed directly (2012) and a year after the fire (2013). The fire had a significant effect on the content of those heavy metals in surface horizons, however, it did not result in their rapid growth. The concentrations of total forms of metals did not exceed the norms provided for in Regulation of the Polish Minister of the Environment. The soil samples analysed can be considered unpolluted with those metals. The availability coefficients calculated showed an unfavourable higher availability of lead and cadmium over zinc and copper. The statistical analysis showed a significant effect of fire on the activity of catalase. Resistance of soil (RS) for catalase demonstrated lower values in the year 2012 as compared with 2013 (except for B soil). The calculated values of time index (TI) pointed to the activation of the enzyme a year after the fire. The Ward clustering method facilitated determining similarities between the sites in two research years (2012 and 2013) with the selected soil parameters. With the PCA method a negative effect of fire was identified.

Nitrogen Source Effects on Methane Emissions From Drill-Seeded, Delayed-Flood Rice Production

Abstract: Rice (Oryza sativa L.) cultivation is unique compared with the production of most other upland row crops in that rice is typically produced under flooded-soil conditions, which can result in net emissions of methane (CH4). Nutrient applications for optimum production, specifically nitrogen (N), which can be organic or inorganic sources, are carefully managed in rice production. However, how nutrient-source effects on CH4 emissions from rice production may interact with other known factors affecting CH4 emissions, such as previous crop/crop rotation and soil texture, are poorly understood, particularly in the midsouthern United States where rice production is concentrated. The objective of this study was to evaluate CH4 fluxes and season-long emissions as affected by fertilizer-N source (i.e., ammonium sulfate [AS], pelletized poultry litter [PPL] + urea, and urea only) and previous crop in rotation (i.e., soybean [Glycine max L.] or rice) from rice production on a clayey Epiaquert and a silt-loam Albaqualf in the Lower Mississippi River Delta region of eastern Arkansas. Methane fluxes, measured using 30-cm-diameter, enclosed-headspace chambers, peaked near heading for all treatments, with PPL + urea resulting in greater (P 0.05) by previous crop on the silt-loam soil. Results clearly indicate that the choice of fertilizer-N source for certain soil textures, specifically AS application to a silt-loam soil, has the potential to mitigate CH4 emissions and reduce the large, negatively perceived, C footprint associated with rice production.

Hydrological signatures based on event runoff coefficients in rural catchments of the Iberian Peninsula.

Abstract: Hydrological signatures are indices that help to describe the behavior of catchments. These indices can also be used to transfer information from gauged to ungauged catchments. In this study, different approaches were evaluated to determine volumetric runoff coefficients in 18 small/ medium experimental gauged catchments of the Iberian Peninsula and to fit runoff calculations based on precipitation data for gauged and ungauged catchments. Using data derived from 1962 events, rainfall-runoff relationships were characterized and compared in order to evaluate the various hydrological response patterns. Volumetric run off coefficients and cumulative runoff and precipitation ratios of the events that generated runoff (Rcum) minimized the root mean square error. A linear fit for the estimation of Rcum in ungauged catchments was based on mean annual precipitation, rates of infiltration, the fraction of forest-land use, and the catchment channel length. Despite high catchment heterogeneity, Rcum resulted in a suitable parameter to evaluate hydrological variability in rural gauged and ungauged catchments. In 50% of the catchments, the precipitation accounted for less than 50% of the runoff variation. Annual precipitation, antecedent rainfall, and base flow did not have a high significance in rainfall-runoff relationships, which illustrates the heterogeneity of hydrological responses. Our results highlight the need for signature characterizations of small/medium rural catchments because they are the sources of runoff and sediment discharge into rivers, and it is more economical and efficient to take action to mitigate runoff in rural locations. Copyright © 2017 The Author(s). Published by Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc.

Effect of pH and Chemical Composition of Solution on Sorption and Retention of Cesium by Feldspar, Illite, and Zeolite as Cesium Sorbent From Landfill Leachate

Abstract: ABSTRACT This study investigated cesium (Cs) sorption and retention by 4 types of minerals, which were considered as candidate sorbents to prevent radiocesium leaching from landfill sites containing radiocesium wastes. Feldspar, 2 types of illite, and natural zeolite were examined for sorption of stable Cs under deionized water or landfill leachate conditions. In the pH range of 6 to 11, feldspar had a large effect on Cs sorption, but the other minerals did not. The sorption isotherms were obtained using 2 types of Cs solutions, which were fit to the Freundlich model. The difference of Freundlich exponent between the 2 types of Cs solutions was attributed to the sorption mechanisms of the minerals. These minerals had two or more types of sorption sites for cations; however, one specific type of site had a potentially higher selectivity for Cs in the leachate. Additionally, extraction test results showed that retention capacity for Cs in the leachate decreased in the following order: natural zeolite > illite Y > illite W > feldspar. Although illite W and illite Y were identified as the same mineral by XRD analysis, they had different retention capacities described as radiocesium interception potential, which is an index of the number of specific sites for Cs.

The Centenary of the Journal Soil Science: Reflections on the Discipline in the United States and Russia Around a Hundred Years Ago

Abstract: Soil Science emerged on the scene in January 1916 as a journal focused on soil fertility and allied fields Its founding editor and guiding force for 23 years was Jacob Goodale Lipman, an immigrant from the Russian Empire who came to the United States in his teens and received all of his sci

Soil-Net: development and impact of innovative, open, online soil science educational resources

Abstract: Despite recognition of soil as a major global natural resource and longstanding policy recognition of its importance for understanding environmental systems and stewardship in a rapidly urbanizing world, soil science has been under-represented in teaching National Curriculum in UK schools. Alongside concerns about declining student participation in science education, a key challenge is how to effectively engage students and address inadequacies in soil education. A UK government-funded initiative led to Soil-Net, an innovative, open, online soil educational website resource to support school curricula. Following a decade of online availability, this paper analyses website data on the adoption, use and impact of Soil-Net 2006-2016. First, data analysis based on geo-identification of over a million and a half users revealed patterns of adoption and usage by territory. Though originally targeted in the UK, Soil-Net is now being used worldwide in 223 countries and territories. Second, analysis of student scores on soil science knowledge quizzes available to be used alongside school education and curricula assessments, provided evidence of student learning supported by Soil-Net resources. Third, analysis based on user ratings and qualitative feedback revealed good satisfaction ratings by primary and secondary school students, teachers and parents. Usage data analysis offers an initial evaluation of Soil-Net, although further research is required to evaluate support for curricula and student learning. Next steps include development of website resources using innovative pedagogies to ensure applicability and sustainability, and research to further evaluate how Soil-Net is used in schools, and its contribution to soil science teaching and learning.

Impact of traffic routes on the content of trace elements in soils in Warsaw agglomeration

Abstract: Abstract This article presents the results of a study on the content of selected trace metals (Pb, Zn, Cu, Cd) in soils near the main traffic routes of the Warsaw agglomeration. The aim of the study was to determine the extent of soil contamination with trace metals at different distances from the road (by the side the road and 50 meters away from the road). In the soil 50 m away from the road in Łomianki ‘low contamination’ was found for zinc and ‘elevated content’ for copper according to the IUNG guidelines, but the amounts of the trace elements were not found to exceed the permissible levels as specified in the Regulation of the Minister for the Environment of 1 September 2016.

Transport of Cadmium and Phosphate in Soils: Miscible Displacement Experiments and Nonlinear Modeling

Abstract: ABSTRACT This study quantified and modeled cadmium (Cd) transport in the presence to phosphate (P) in three different soils, Mahan (acidic, kaolinitic), Webster (neutral, mixed mineralogy), and Windsor (acidic, sandy). Two sets of miscible displacement experiments were carried out: (1) sequential pulses of 200 mg L−1 Cd as Cd(NO3)2 then 200 mg L−1 P as KH2PO4, both in 0.01 M KNO3 background; and (2) two consecutive pulses of mixed 200 mg L−1 Cd and P in background solution. Isotherms for Cd and P (1-d equilibration) were also determined. Breakthrough curves (BTCs) of Cd applied without P were generally consistent with the (Freundlich) isotherms and soil properties, Cd retention decreasing: Webster, 72% > Mahan, 61% > Windsor, 37%. Retention of Cd increased when applied with P in Webster and Windsor but decreased in Mahan. Phosphate BTCs indicated high mobility (≥92% recovery) and little effect of Cd, thus limited Cd-P precipitation. Residual distribution of Cd with depth also showed no clear evidence for precipitation. Cadmium BTCs could not be described solely by either linear or nonlinear equilibrium isotherms. Rather, the data were best described by nonlinear, reversible kinetic sorption with an irreversible phase. However, P sorption during transport was well described without irreversible sorption, thus indirect evidence of limited Cd-P precipitation. Although transport of Cd applied without P was well described (r2 = 0.95, Webster and Windsor), description of BTCs was more qualitative when applied with P, accurately locating effluent peak but approximating the sorption and desorption sides.

Prediction of Soil Organic Matter Using Ordinary Kriging Combined With the Clustering of Self-organizing Map: A Case Study in Pinggu District, Beijing, China

Abstract: ABSTRACT Accurate prediction of organic matter distribution in soil is critical to sustainable soil management. Although correlated factors have been used to improve the accuracy of soil organic matter prediction, very few studies have considered the nonlinear relationships between these correlated factors and soil organic matter. The objective of this study was to use the clustering of self-organizing maps to describe the nonlinear relationships between soil organic matter and correlated factors and then examine whether ordinary kriging combined with the clustering of self-organizing maps (KCSOM) can improve prediction accuracy. The performance of the model in the Pinggu district of Beijing was compared with four interpolators: ordinary kriging, ordinary kriging combined with soil texture, ordinary kriging combined with soil type map delineation, and ordinary kriging combined with land use. Results showed that KCSOM accounted for the nonlinear relationships between soil organic matter and the correlated factors and was the only technique that effectively avoided underestimation of the higher values and overestimation of the lower values of the interpolation surface. Moreover, the spatial variation of soil organic matter for different clusters of an entire map was more accurate than spatial variation generated by ordinary kriging. The mean error, root mean squared error, and relative improvement for KCSOM were 0.004, 2.01, and 30.92%, respectively. The estimation imprecision of KCSOM was decreased by 77.04%. These results indicate that prediction accuracy was greater with KCSOM than with any of the other methods and that the proposed technique can serve as an effective method for prediction of soil organic matter.

Textural diversity in selected Retisols in the catena of the Opalenica Plain (western Poland)

Abstract: The investigation was carried out in the catena of Retisols within the Opalenica Plain. The aim of the study was to characterize the variation in texture of selected Retisols formed from ground moraine glacial till of Leszno Phase of Vistulian glaciation. The analyzed soils are characterized by a similar degree of soil material segregation, which is characteristic for the typical glacial till. Particle size distribution and granulometric indices lead to conclusion that soils located in the catena on summit and shoulder positions, have vertical texture distribution formed primarily by lessivage process. Sandy texture of eluvial horizons noted in the Retisol of the slope pediment can be a consequence of not only lessivage but also of slope forming processes that led to the appearance of lithic discontinuity. The cluster analysis using Ward’s method and 1-rPearson as the distance measure can be helpful for identification the lithogenic uniformity and/or non-uniformity of soil parent material.

Effect of Biochar, Green Compost, and Vermicompost on the Quality of a Calcareous Soil: A 1-Year Laboratory Experiment

Abstract: Changes in the chemical and biological characteristics of a calcareous soil by the addition of green compost (GC), vermicompost (VC), biochar, biochar + GC, and biochar + VC were evaluated during a 360-day laboratory incubation. The GC and the VC treatments lowered the soil pH and increased the total and dissolved organic C, microbial biomass C, microbial quotient, alkaline phosphatase (AP-ase) and specific AP-ase, dehydrogenase (DH-ase) and specific DH-ase, and metabolic potential. The improvement in the biological activity of the soil was more notable and permanent with VC than GC. The biochar treatment temporarily increased the pH of the calcareous soil (pH 8.2) up to a maximum of 8.57, showed the greatest increase of total organic C, did not change dissolved organic C and microbial biomass C, and induced small effects on soil biological activities. When mixed with biochar (biochar + GC and biochar + VC), composts led to higher organic C mineralization; dissolved organic C, biomass C, and DH-ase activity; and did not change the metabolic quotient, specific AP-ase, and specific DH-ase activities. The AP-ase activity of biochar was enhanced only by the addition of VC, although in a nonadditive way. Metabolic potential was more than halved by the GC and was not changed by the VC. Overall, our study shows that the incorporation of both composts, particularly VC, into calcareous soils may improve soil quality, whereas biochar could have benefits for C sequestration. In addition, the mixing of GC, and especially VC with biochar, increased some soil quality parameters compared with the biochar-only treatment.

Assessment of various practices of the mitigation of N2O emissions from the arable soils of Poland

Abstract: Abstract This review assesses the adaptability and effectiveness of the basic practices to mitigate the N2O emissions from the arable land in the climate, soil and agricultural conditions of Poland. We have analyzed the decrease in the nitrogen-based fertilization, selection of the fertilizer nitrogen forms, use of biological inhibitors of nitrogen transformation in the soil, control of the acidic soil reaction, reduction in the natural fertilizers use and afforestation of the low productive soils. The challenge evaluating the effectiveness of mitigation practices lies in the inadequacy of the national data on N2O soil emissions in particular agrotechnical conditions. In Poland, circumstances that favor intensive N2O emissions from the arable soils occur uncommonly, as shows the analysis of the literature reporting on the country climate, soil and agricultural conditions alongside the N2O emissions from soils under various cultivation conditions. Consequently, the effectiveness of mitigation practices that relies on an extensification of plant production may be insufficient. It can be assumed that, at the doses of nitrogen fitting the nutritional needs of crops, the soil N2O emissions are low and do not meaningfully differ from the emissions from untreated soils (literature data point to limited N2O emission from arable soils treated with N doses of ≤150-200 kg N·ha-1). The effectiveness of the nitrogen fertilization reduction as an N2O emissions mitigation practice is restricted to intensive farming. A universal registry of the mineral and natural fertilization use could help identify the agricultural holdings with a potential for high N2O emission and foster a targeted application of mitigation practices. It is suggested that normalization and maintenance of the optimum (i.e. close to neutral) soil pH should become a more common practice of N2O emissions mitigation in Poland in view of the extent of arable soils acidification and the literature data that indicate elevated N2O emissions from acid soils. Application of urease and nitrification inhibitors alongside nitrogen fertilization can be considered an effective practice of N2O emissions mitigation. Owing to economic reasons the use of nitrogen fertilizers with such additives is currently limited to non-agricultural segments of plant production. Afforestation of the low productive soils offers an attractive opportunity for mitigation of N2O emissions. Whereas N2O emissions from forest soils are considerably lower compared with those from the arable ones, the literature indicates that no N2O emissions mitigation is attained through a conversion of arable land to agroforestry. Considering the current forest area of Poland (24.9% of the total area) and the plans to increase the afforestation rate (to 33% in 2050) the measurable effects of this mitigation practice will only be seen in a long-term perspective. Besides identifying and excelling the mitigation practices the authors postulate a review of the algorithms employed by the National Centre for Emissions Management (KOBiZE) for the calculation of the GHG emissions. Solutions applied by KOBiZE appear to address mainly the area - or population-related aspects and, to a much lesser degree, the actual N2O production. In this context, the effects of certain N2O emissions mitigation practices might be difficult to be taken into consideration. The application of national statistics of the use of mineral and natural fertilizers to the calculation of the N2O emissions from the arable soils might be questioned given that the N2O emissions are driven by the actual local N dose.

The usefulness of soil-agricultural maps to identify classes of soil truncation

Abstract: Abstract Soil erosion led to the severe transformations of the soil cover of young morainic areas of northern Poland. Main alterations are connected with soil truncation on summits and in upper part of slopes, whereas at foot slopes and within depressions colluvial material is accumulated. Information and knowledge about the extent or intensity of erosion are mainly derived from sophisticated geospatial models or laborious field works. To reduce the effort associated with development of studies on erosion the use of easily available cartographic sources is required. The main aim of the paper is an elaboration of key to reinterpret information taken from soil-agricultural maps in the context of determining the degree of pedons truncation. The study is based on a comparison of the properties of soils representing various classes of erosional alterations with the data on existing maps. The correlation between descriptions recorded in the form of cartographic symbols with properties of pedons divided into several classes of vertical texturecontrast soil truncation and results from potential erosion maps was elaborated. The application of developed interpretative principles allows calculating the share of soil truncation classes within investigated area. The five test plots (each - 1 km2) were located along the north slopes of Noteć Middle Valley and Toruń Basin. The proposed interpretation of soil-agricultural maps reveals their significant value in studies on extent and degree of erosional alterations recorded in soil cover.

125 Years of Soil and Crop Management on Sanborn Field: Effects on Soil Physical Properties Related to Soil Erodibility

Abstract: Long-term management systems cause changes to soil physical properties that may affect soil erosion and erodibility. A study was conducted to evaluate the effects of 125 years of continuous crop management on Sanborn Field for selected soil physical properties. Intact soil cores were collected from continuous corn (Zea mays L.), continuous wheat (Triticum aestivum L.), continuous timothy (Phleum pratense L.), and a rotation of corn–wheat–red clover (Trifolium pratense L.). Soil samples were collected from the surface horizon throughout 1 year (April, July, and November 2014 sampling dates). Aggregate stability, soil splash detachment, bulk density, and soil strength were measured. Significant differences in aggregate stability (P < 0.01), splash detachment (P < 0.01), soil shear strength (P < 0.05), and bulk density (P < 0.05) were found among the treatments. Continuous timothy had three to four times better aggregate stability and 50% to 75% less splash detachment compared with continuous wheat and corn, respectively. Lowest aggregate stability, lowest soil strength, highest bulk density, and highest soil splash detachment were found under continuous corn. Highest aggregate stability was found during July. Annual crops with tillage have a negative effect on soil quality and erodibility. Comparing results after 125 years with data collected after 105 years illustrates that properties have not changed dramatically during the past 20 years. Assessing the effects of long-term soil management on soil quality and erodibility is critical for society to determine the amount of soil erosion associated with selected soil management and to develop appropriate conservation practices to minimize this challenge and promote long-term sustainability.

Three Annual Flue Gas Desulfurization Gypsum Applications on Macronutrient and Micronutrient Losses in Runoff From Bermudagrass Fertilized With Poultry Litter

Abstract: ABSTRACT Considerable amounts of flue gas desulfurization (FGD) gypsum are being produced as a by-product of generating electricity. As a result, beneficial reuse of this by-product is being sought to reduce landfilling and its associated cost. The use of this by-product as a low-cost soil amendment for suppling Ca and S to crops, improving soil structure, or reducing P loss from agricultural fields may be a viable alternative for easing the burden of disposal. In order to better understand the influence FGD gypsum has on nutrient losses in surface water runoff, rainfall simulations were conducted on an Ultisol (Luverne sandy loam; fine, mixed, semiactive, thermic Typic Hapludults) in a bermudagrass (Cynodon dactylon L.) hayfield typical of the US Coastal Plains region. Treatments consisted of applying 0, 2.2, 4.4, and 8.9 Mg ha−1 FGD gypsum with 13.4 Mg ha−1 poultry litter (PL) plus a nonfertilized check (no PL or FGD gypsum) and 8.9 Mg ha−1 FGD gypsum only as controls. All treatments were applied each May from 2009 to 2011. In 2011, two simulated rainfall events (~89 mm h−1) were created to promote runoff for 60 min, one immediately after treatment application and the other 6 months later (end of growing season). The greatest nutrient losses observed were generally during the initial runoff event immediately following PL application. The addition of FGD gypsum alone generally increased Ca and S losses regardless of when the simulated runoff event occurred. Poultry litter additions increased inorganic N (NO3-N and NH4-N) and total P losses in both runoff events and K in the initial runoff event only. Adding FGD gypsum with PL decreased total P concentration losses while increasing NH4-N, Mg, and Mn, primarily in the initial runoff event. Concentrations of Al and Fe in runoff were generally minimal or below detection limits.

Changes of soil water regime types in the area adjacent to the Tomisławice open-cast lignite mine (central Poland).

Abstract: Abstract This work presents the results of a four-year study on the determination of the range of soil groundwater drainage caused by the operation of the Tomisławice lignite open-cast mine. The performed analyses covered the area of 9600 ha which included 24 villages. It was found that operation of Tomisławice open-cast mine caused noticeable changes of soil groundwater level in the areas adjacent to the excavation. It consequently resulted in considerable changes in soil water regimes types on grassland areas but it did not always lead to soil degradation processes. However, the deterioration of soils hydrological conditions may cause disappearance of certain hydrophilous grass species.

Genesis and Physical Behavior of Soils on Sandstone and Shale in Southern California

Abstract: ABSTRACT Sandstone- and shale-derived soils are common in southern California where they function in watersheds, support wildland ecosystems, and are subject to residential and infrastructure development. Because little is known about these soils on texturally contrasting parent materials, this study was designed to interpret their pedogenesis and accompanying soil physical behavior. The study area is in the chaparral-covered foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains, where the 400-mm mean annual precipitation comes as rain during the winter and summers are hot and dry. The soil on sandstone is an Alfisol with a fine-loamy argillic horizon and mixed mineralogy. It is leached of carbonates and has pH values of 5.7 to 6.8. The shale-derived soil is a clayey, smectitic Vertisol with accumulated calcium carbonate, indicating less leaching than the Alfisol. Soil organic carbon storage in the Alfisol (7.96 kg m−2) and Vertisol (9.87 kg m−2) is similar, but the Vertisol has additional carbon (4.88 kg m−2) in the form of calcium carbonate. The Vertisol has high shrink-swell potential, with coefficient of linear extensibility values mostly 0.09 to 0.12. The Alfisol has minimal shrink-swell potential. Available water capacities for the Alfisol soil horizons (4%–20%) range higher than those of the Vertisol (4%–11%), but the thicker regolith profile of the Vertisol means it can store more plant-available water overall. Field saturated hydraulic conductivity was similar for the soils during the wet season (0.2–1.6 cm h−1), but was higher in the extensively cracked Vertisol during the dry season. The available water capacities (4%) and saturated hydraulic conductivities (0.2–0.4 cm h−1) of the Cr horizons of both soils indicate that these weathered bedrocks are functional parts of the soil hydrologic system. The divergent properties of the soils are related to the nature of the parent material and its evolution in response to soil-water dynamics.