Impact of Phosphorus Fertilization on Water Quality
Author Information
Author(s): Yuan Yongping, Bingner Ronald L., Locke Martin A., Stafford Jim, Theurer Fred D.
Primary Institution: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Hypothesis
How do different phosphorus fertilization rates affect phosphorus loadings in the Upper Auglaize watershed?
Conclusion
Higher phosphorus fertilization rates lead to increased phosphorus loadings to the watershed outlet, indicating a critical point in soil phosphorus loss.
Supporting Evidence
- Phosphorus loadings increase as fertilization rate increases.
- Long-term higher phosphorus application leads to much higher phosphorus loadings.
- A critical point may exist in the soil where phosphorus loss to water changes dramatically.
- Simulations showed that higher initial soil phosphorus content leads to quicker reaching of the critical point.
Takeaway
Using more fertilizer can cause more phosphorus to wash into rivers and lakes, which can harm water quality. It's important to find the right amount of fertilizer to use.
Methodology
The study used the AnnAGNPS model to simulate phosphorus loadings based on different fertilization rates and initial soil phosphorus contents.
Potential Biases
Potential biases may arise from the reliance on self-reported fertilizer application rates and soil phosphorus tests.
Limitations
The model calibration relied on synthetic weather data and may not fully represent day-to-day variations in land use and management practices.
Participant Demographics
The study focused on agricultural land use in the Upper Auglaize watershed in Ohio.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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