REDUCING PHOSPHORUS RUNOFF FROM SMALL LIVESTOCK FARMS INTO MISSISQUOI BAY
Applied Research
Jeffrey Carter
UVM Extension Associate Professor, Agronomy
University of Vermont
Middlebury
Abstract
Runoff from crop fields that receive manure and fertilizer contributes to elevated phosphorus (P) levels found in Missisquoi bay of Lake Champlain. Excess P promotes vegetation growth and algae blooms in fresh water and impairs water quality. The objective of the project was to reduce P loss from 30 farms in the Missisquoi watershed through voluntary development and implementation of a Nutrient Management Plan (NMP) based on the USDA-NRCS 590 Nutrient Management standard. The project was a public-sector/private-industry collaboration between UVM Extension and Bourdeaus’ & Bushey Inc., funded through a US federal appropriation to the International Joint Commission (IJC), US Section and implemented by the New England Interstate Water Pollution Control Commission (NEIWPCC) and Lake Champlain Basin Program (LCBP). Reductions in P loss were evaluated by the change in Phosphorus Index (P Index) scores for 385 crop fields encompassing 4,286 acres on 30 farms from 2007 to 2008. The average Total P Index score across all farms decreased by 8% from 54.6 in 2007 to 50.3 in 2008. The Sediment Bound P Index score decreased 10% from 17.0 to 15.3, while the Dissolved P Index score was reduced 7% from 37.6 to 34.9. Adoption of farm practices prescribed in a whole-farm Nutrient Management Plan reduced the amount of P that was transported into Missisquoi Bay from agricultural non-point sources.
Poster has NOT been presented at any previous NACAA AM/PIC
This poster is being submitted for judging. It will be displayed at the AM/PIC if not selected as a State winner. The abstract will be published in the proceedings.
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Authors: J.E. Carter, S.A. Flis
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Carter, J. Extension Specialist, University of Vermont Extension, Vermont, 05753
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Flis, S. Agricultural Consultant, Bourdeaus’ & Bushey Inc., Vermont, 05753