ARS | Publication request: Tillage Effects on Near Surface Soil Water Dynamics

Submitted to: Asa-Cssa-Sssa Proceedings
Publication Acceptance Date: May 3, 2004
Publication Date: October 5, 2004
Citation: Schwartz, R.C., Baumhardt, R.L., Evett, S.R. 2004. Tillage Effects On Near Surface Soil Water Dynamics. [cd-Rom]. Asa-Cssa-Sssa, Seattle, Wa. Annual Meetings Abstracts 2004.

Technical Abstract: Tillage modifies the soil physical properties near the surface which in turn can influence evaporation rates and how water is redistributed within the profile during and after precipitation. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of sweep tillage on near surface soil water dynamics. Plots were established in a fallow field under stubble-mulch tillage management on a Pullman clay loam (Fine, mixed, superactive, thermic Torrertic Paleustolls). Half of the plots were periodically tilled to a depth of approximately 100 mm using a sweep plow. The remaining plots were not tilled throughout the duration of the study. Soil water contents were monitored using time-domain reflectometry at 0.05, 0.1, 0.15, 0.2, and 0.3 m and using a neutron moisture meter to a depth of 2.3 m. Changes in soil bulk density and desorption relationships of the surface 0.1 m were also determined for extracted soil cores. Tillage effects on the spatial and temporal distribution of soil water and how this relates to soil hydraulic properties are presented.