Use of Manure to Wheat Production in an Argentinean Hapludoll Soil

Beef cattle feeding operations or feedlots generate large volumes of manure which can negatively impact the environment. This residue has a high concentration of nutrients (N, P and K), minerals, trace elements, organic matter and pathogens, among others. Its components can be mobilized by water dynamics and reach into surface or groundwater water sources, deteriorating its quality . Using manure in wheat production cropland is an alternative method to reduce feedlot environmental impact and thus to achieve an integrated farming system. Manure provides someof the essential elements for growth and development of crops due to its highnutrient concentration, which can significantly reduce fertilizing costs. Moreover, the increase in organic matter (and thus, moisture retention capacity) improves and maintains the soil properties.

There are international standards and technical procedures on manure fertilization practices. Nevertheless, environmental aspects are conditioning factors over them. Local case studies are essential for developing conceptual models to predict the evolution of these practices under different soil and climate conditions, and thus avoid potential environmental damage. In this context, the aim of this study is to evaluate the use of cattle manure in partial or total replacement of inorganic fertilizers in wheat production and assess its impact on soil properties. Read more.............