Effective Nutrient Management Decisions...Looking Beyond the Next Harvest
Effective Nutrient Management Decisions ... Looking Beyond the Next Harvest" is a presentation made August 10, 2006 by Paul Fixen, PPI Senior Vice President, and Fernando Garcia, PPIC Southern Cone Director, at the annual congress of AAPRESID in Rosario, Argentina. The presentation focused on the importance of considering long-term effects of phosphorus and organic matter management decisions on the sustainability and profitability of cropping systems. Data from the Pampas of Argentina and the Corn Belt of the U.S. were used to illustrate that these regions share characteristics and challenges to long-term sustainability. AAPRESID is the Argentina No-till Association.
Soil organic matter changes can be a sensitive indicator of soil productivity. Sustainable management involves finding a balance between crop residue addition and the benefits obtained from organic matter decay. Increasing carbon input to the soil is a major means of increasing benefits associated with organic matter. Whether from direct increases in the supply of crop residue or more efficient retention of the carbon fixed by photosynthesis, appropriate nutrient management decisions can positively impact soil organic matter and soil productivity.
Phosphorus removal in harvested crops currently exceeds use in both the Pampas and the U.S. Corn Belt. The point at which these deficit budgets reduce productivity and profitability is predictable by soil testing. It is highly likely that some farms are already experiencing lost production as soil tests drop below optimal levels, while in other cases it may still take many years before losses will be experienced.
Due to the high frequency of rented land in both the Pampas and the U.S. Corn Belt, increased use of leases that equitably share the short-term costs of practices that return long-term benefits will likely be an ingredient in developing programs aimed at increasing soil productivity.
The Pampas of Argentina and the Corn Belt of the U.S. have similar soils, grow similar crops, and share several nutrient management challenges associated with long-term consequences of existing practices. Changes from current practices will be necessary in both regions for agriculture to be sustainable. Continued sharing of research results and effective cooperative educational programs, like the AAPRESID Congress, should help expedite those needed changes and help us all look...beyond the next harvest.
The paper that accompanies the presentation is also available: 
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