Project Number: 5407-12130-005-00
Project Type: Appropriated

Start Date: Jun 29, 2001
End Date: Jun 28, 2006

Objective:
1. Develop sustainable dryland cropping systems using minimum/no-till management, crop sequencing, crop residue management, and pest management that increase crop yields, soil quality/productivity, and provide economic stability while minimizing environmental risk. 2. Quantify effects of crop species, tillage, crop residue, soil fertility and pest management on soil quality, soil water storage and use, carbon sequestration and long-term productivity of the soil resource.

Approach:
Field, laboratory and greenhouse experiments will be conducted using appropriate experimental designs (Latin square, split plot, etc.) to determine long-term sustainable minimum/no-till dryland crop rotations for the region. These experiments include studies to evaluate alternative crop sequencing, fertility needs, and cultural practices to reduce dependence on pesticides and other ag chemicals. The effect of rotation and cultural management on weeds, and weed-crop interactions; and on soil chemical and physical characteristics and nutrient cycling will be quantified. Crop and soil simulation models will be calibrated/evaluated for prediction accuracy of yield and soil transformations using 98 years of climate and crop rotation data to extrapolate research results at CGPRS to other regions. Economic risk assessment of intensive dryland rotations will be calculated to determine economic feasibility.

Project Team

Vigil, Merle Mikha, Maysoon Benjamin, Joseph Nielsen, David

Project Annual Reports

FY 2003   FY 2002   FY 2001