A study by Michigan State University found that students enrolling in fishery and wildlife programs are leaving after completing coursework due to limited hands-on experiences and challenging academic requirements. The researchers identified seven categories for student departure, including engagement, employment, and academic rigor.
A study analyzed five long-term experiments to predict effects of no tillage management on soil organic carbon. Harvesting substantial crop residues without added carbon would deplete soil organic carbon and increase pollution risks.
A recent study by Dr. William Cox found that soybeans grown in 7.5-inch rows have a 15% greater yield than those planted in 30-inch rows, even in the Northeast's shorter growing season. The difference is attributed to lower biomass and fewer seeds, due to reduced seeding rates with corn planters.
Researchers found that approximately 44% of fields demonstrate rapid atrazine degradation activity due to recent use, soil pH, and organic matter content. Growers can predict enhanced degradation with multiple atrazine applications and high soil pH above 6.3.
A study found that oysters can effectively filter ag and urban runoff in the Chesapeake Bay, removing significant amounts of nutrients. Eight large-scale oyster farms could potentially remove one ton of nitrogen from the bay annually, providing a practical ecosystem service.
Researchers at Rothamsted Research and ICARDA developed a method to account for spatial trend in single crop field trials, improving accuracy on line performance estimates. The new approach can significantly enhance precision in estimating crop yield and characteristics.
A UW-Madison team, led by Chris Kucharik and Adena Rissman, is conducting a comprehensive study on the Yahara watershed to understand the links between water systems, land use, climate change, and human activities. The goal is to develop tools for managing water resources in balance with social, economic, and environmental considerations.
Researchers develop method to treat stormwater in constructed wetland and store it in an aquifer, producing near potable water after treatment. The study demonstrates potential for sustainable water recycling through managed aquifer recharge schemes.
A recent study found that the implementation of federal regulations on treating sewage has significantly lowered pathogen levels in biosolids. The study analyzed data from 18 wastewater treatment plants and found that pathogens have dropped by 94-99% since 1993.
A study by the University of Kentucky found that earthworms can absorb copper nanoparticles present in soil, raising concerns about potential exposure to humans and animals. The research has significant implications for understanding the interactions of nanomaterials in the environment.
A USGS study assessed the McKenzie River in Oregon, measuring optical properties to understand dissolved organic carbon and its impact on drinking water quality. The results indicated that sources of dissolved organic carbon originated upstream and were linked to human activity.
Iron deficient soils in the North Central United States reduce soybean production by 12.5 million bushels annually. Researchers found that adding nitrogen fertilizer can exacerbate iron deficiency in low-efficient varieties, whereas efficient varieties are less affected.
Researchers have re-sequenced six elite corn varieties, discovering over 100 genes that are present in some but not others. This presence/absence variation could be crucial to understanding heterosis and producing better hybrids.
A study by the University of Nebraska-Lincoln found that online students performed just as well as their in-person counterparts, despite feeling less connected to their peers. The study suggests that online courses could be more effective with strategies like one-on-one contact and timely feedback.
A recent study by the University of Delaware found that pelletized manure and no-tillage treatments can significantly reduce estrogen concentrations in manure runoff. The study, published in the Journal of Environmental Quality, suggests that measuring all forms of estrogens is crucial to understanding their environmental impact.
Researchers at Iowa State University found that single-cropping sorghum grass yields more ethanol than double-cropping systems. The study suggests using sorghum as a sole crop could meet up to 25% of the US energy needs, surpassing corn-based fuels.
Researchers found E. coli can survive and contaminate lettuce and radish plants grown in manure-treated fields. Harvesting produce at least 40 days after planting can minimize the risk of contamination.
A case study from Washington State University explores how Urban Agriculture is used to help homeless and underprivileged youth. The CSA program, implemented in Seattle's South Park Neighborhood, provides a weekly box of produce while promoting social skills and employment.
Researchers found declining levels of nitrogen and phosphorus since the 1970s, indicating improved water quality in Everglades National Park. The study's findings suggest that the park's restoration methods have effectively reduced waste and improved ecosystem health.
Researchers used Doppler weather radar data to improve forecast models for monsoon systems, reducing landfall error from 200km to 75km. This enhancement can better prepare people for heavy rains and catastrophic floods in coastal areas of India.
Researchers found that early cotton planting boosts yield only with irrigation. In non-irrigated plots, early planting resulted in decreased production, even experiencing a 13% decline in yield one year.
The American Society of Agronomy has selected 2010 ASA Fellows, including experts in soil science, plant breeding, and water management. The class includes Cynthia Grant, Scott D. Haley, and Peter Kleinman, among others, who have made significant contributions to their fields.
The book provides a historical overview of the American Society of Agronomy's role in shaping global agricultural practices. It also delves into future trends and challenges, including changing diets, biofuels, and under-investment in research, to ensure a sustainable food system for the coming century.
A new study found low levels of bacteria in soils outside fields sprayed with swine manure, while internal soils showed higher nutrient levels but lower pathogen levels. The research suggests that manure management plans have been effective in reducing bacterial risks.
The American Society of Agronomy announces award recipients for their exceptional work in education, national and international service, and research. The awards honor individuals who have made significant contributions to the field of agronomy.
Scientists studied soil moisture, porewater salinity, and hydrological relationships in a historically freshwater floodplain forest to develop restoration plans. They found that conditions in the vadose zone are crucial for seedling survival in coastal floodplain ecosystems.
The American Society of Agronomy (ASA), Crop Science Society of America (CSSA), and Soil Science Society of America (SSSA) are presenting various scholarships and fellowships to students pursuing careers in agronomy and plant sciences. The scholarships include the Hank Beachell Future Leader Scholarship, United Soybean Board Fellowship...
A collaboration between Iowa State University's Horticulture, Library, and English departments resulted in improved student outcomes. Students valued the input from faculty and enjoyed interacting with them at poster sessions.
Researchers found that fields amended with poultry litter can accumulate significant levels of arsenic, which can then migrate into nearby streams and rivers. The study highlights the importance of controlling point sources of arsenic and suggests management practices to protect local regions from agricultural pollutants.
A new report by the American Society of Agronomy highlights the role of agriculture in greenhouse gas emissions and capture. The study finds that adopting conservation agricultural systems can increase carbon sequestration and reduce GHG emissions. However, knowledge gaps remain in understanding the effectiveness of these practices.
Recent research found that forest fires stimulate the conversion of ammonia to nitrates, a crucial step in the nitrogen cycle. This process is triggered by charcoal deposition and can continue well after the fire has passed, benefiting coniferous forests in the inland Northwestern US.
The Farming Systems Greenhouse Gas Emissions Calculator helps farmers maximize their potential economic returns in greenhouse gas markets. By changing farming practices, users can reduce greenhouse gas losses and gain an economic advantage.
The new book 'Urban Ecosystem Ecology' aims to understand the complexities of urban ecosystems and provide solutions for managing their environmental impacts. The book covers topics such as wildlife, water quality, air quality, and climate change, and offers practical guidance on green infrastructure planning and urban forestry.
A simple and inexpensive demonstration of soil water retention and field capacity helps students visualize and understand these concepts. The demonstration uses PVC rings, a trashcan, and a scale, illustrating the influence of soil texture, structure, and depth to the water table on soil water content.
A long-term study found that biochar can reduce nitrous oxide emissions by up to 73% and ammonium leaching by up to 94%, with reductions occurring over time due to 'ageing' of the biochars in soil. The research highlights the potential of biochar as a tool to mitigate climate change.
The study reveals that incorporating NASA products into the BASINS model significantly improves water quality model performance. By capturing the effects of water flow during storm periods, the NASA data systems provide a more accurate representation of non-point pollution and improve estimates of water quality.
A study compiled field studies across the US to identify influences on biomass yield of switchgrass. Lowland and upland switchgrass types showed varying yields, with annual averages of 12.9 metric tons per hectare for lowland and 8.7 metric tons for upland ecotypes.
Researchers found that online learning modules increased participant understanding of key concepts by 30% and retention rates remained high after two months. Participants valued the supplement to hands-on classes, but preferred face-to-face interaction with experts.
Dr. Seong Park's research found that manure provides higher economic returns than chemical fertilizers due to its multiple essential crop nutrients and lower costs. The study showed that swine effluent was the most cost-effective option, with breakeven prices lower than anhydrous ammonia.
A five-year study found that one-time tillage did not negatively impact grain yield or soil structure in no-till crops. However, it may help manage perennial weeds and reduce phosphorus stratification. The researchers concluded that tilling should only be done to address specific problems, as it increases erosion risk.
A team of scientists from the University of Missouri reviewed EPA greenhouse gas emission estimates for agricultural anaerobic lagoons, finding errors and potential underestimates by up to 65%. The study suggests that some manure storage facilities may exceed current reporting requirements.
Researchers found that improving soil structure was a significant variable contributing to positive potato yield. Supplementing traditional soil sampling with spectral measurement provided detailed insights into how the potato crop interacts with its environment.
A two-year field study found that compost filter socks reduced sediment concentration by 49% in runoff from tilled fields, but had no effect on no-till fields. The filter socks also decreased herbicide alachlor and glyphosate concentrations by 18% and 5%, respectively.
Tall fescue toxicosis is a costly disorder affecting forage-livestock agriculture, with no cure but proven management techniques available. The new guidebook covers management strategies such as endophyte testing and supplement feeding to lessen the impact of toxicosis.
A team of scientists has developed an application of rare earth elements to control and track phosphorus runoff from soils receiving livestock manure. The method reduces phosphorus solubility and can be used to label and track soil erosion and sedimentation during storm events.
Research found that adding straw residue to hairy vetch cover crops can reduce legume nitrogen losses, but may lower crop yields. The study revealed that straw residue reduced soil inorganic nitrogen content by an average of 7.3% compared to treatments with only legume residues.
Researchers in New Zealand studied transport of microbes from cow pastures into groundwater supplies and found little to no transport due to spray irrigation application. Spray irrigation was shown to significantly reduce the risk of microbial contamination of groundwater, contradicting previous findings on flood irrigation.
Scientists have developed a faster technique for testing soils around oil spills, allowing for on-site analysis of petroleum contaminants in moist soil samples. The new method uses visible near infrared light with diffuse reflectance spectroscopy to rapidly evaluate soils for oil contamination.
A Brazilian study finds that forestry students' concerns change as they progress through their studies, suggesting ways to improve the curriculum. Later years prioritize competency-related skills and work areas, while first years focus on conservation.
A new study finds that adding straw residue to hairy vetch cover crops can reduce nitrogen loss into waterways. However, this method also results in reduced crop yields due to the straw's removal from the field for sale. The research suggests integrating legume cover crops with synthetic fertilizers could improve sustainability.
A study examined the impact of grazing management on greenhouse gas emissions from grasslands. Native grasslands were found to be strong sinks of soil organic carbon and minor sources of methane, while seeded pastures emitted higher amounts of nitrous oxide.
A three-year study found that cover crops significantly reduced erosion and runoff in maize cropping systems, with a residual effect lasting up to two years. The research suggests that burying sufficient cover crop biomass into the soil can reduce erosion rates by 40-90% lower than rough tillage.
A new book chapter by American Society of Agronomy, Crop Science Society of America, and Soil Science Society of America highlights critical agricultural research areas receiving federal funding, including biofuel production, environmental quality, food safety, and nutrition. The chapter highlights $429 million increase in NIFA's compe...
A new method for effective discussions involves a student facilitator who directs the discussion, rather than a leader controlling content. This approach encourages all participants to contribute, promoting equal participation and improving communication skills.
A new model has estimated that large amounts of organic nitrogen are stored in the soil beneath fields in Nebraska and Maryland, where corn and soybean crops are grown. The study found that leaching accounted for most of the nitrogen lost from the soil, particularly in irrigated areas.
Low-external-input cropping systems reduce energy and yield impacts compared to conventional corn and soybean rotation. Manure application decreases fossil fuel energy costs without significantly increasing labor inputs.
A Purdue University scientist has discovered a long-sought gene that controls soybean stem growth, allowing for the creation of new plant varieties with desirable characteristics. The gene, Dt1, was found to be responsible for determining whether a soybean's stem continues to grow after flowering.
Research found that grass and tree buffer strips decrease surface water runoff while increasing subsurface infiltration, resulting in an overall loss of herbicides before reaching bodies of water. Total export of herbicides was reduced through the use of these barriers.
A new approach to teaching agriculture in the classroom uses case studies to motivate students and inspire changes in attitude. The study found that engaging students with real-world examples improved their understanding and presentation skills, but some felt that more time was needed for discussions and activities.
Growing energy crops like warm season grasses and short-rotation woody crops can promote long-term carbon sequestration and provide biofuel feedstock. Removing crop residues from fields, however, can lead to soil erosion, water pollution, and reduced nutrient cycling.