ARS | Publication request: DYNAMIC CROPPING SYSTEMS INFLUENCE ON SOIL BIOCHEMISTRY

Submitted to: Agronomy Society of America, Crop Science Society of America, Soil Science Society of America Meeting
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: September 1, 2005
Publication Date: November 6, 2005
Citation: Stott, D.E., Liebig, M.A., Tanaka, D.L., Krupinsky, J.M. 2005. Dynamic cropping systems influence on soil biochemistry [abstract] [CDROM]. Agronomy Society of America, Crop Science Society of America, Soil Science Society of America Meeting Abstracts. Asa-CSSA-SSSA Annual Meeting. Nov. 6-10, 2005, Salt Lake City, UT.

Technical Abstract: In the Northern Great Plains, more intensive, diverse cropping systems have been developed as a means to improve soil and water conservation in the region. A no-till field research project was conducted near Mandan, ND on a Wilton-Temvik silt loam (fine-silty, mixed, superactive, frigid Pachic and Typic Haplustolls). Ten crops were grown in 2 year rotations with corn on two separate fields. Crops included: buckwheat, canola, chick pea, corn, dry pea, lentil, millet, sorghum, sunflower, and wheat. Soil was sampled in the spring before planting, with the first year following corn and the second year following the alternative crops. No differences were apparent in soil organic carbon levels. Differences in enzyme activity were seen between years for certain crops. Buckwheat, canola, chickpea, lentil and sorghum showed increased activity over corn, while millet and sunflower exhibited decreased activity.