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Project title

Eutrophication from Agriculture Sources (Phosphorus and Nitrogen) - Slurry Spreading

Primary Funding Agency

Environmental Protection Agency

Co-Funding Organisation(s)

n/a

Lead Organisation

Teagasc

Lead Applicant

Declan Ryan

Project Abstract

The draft review of the potential for P and N loss from slurry spreading has been completed. Much of this was submitted previously but updates and corrections are included in the Appendix. The evaluation of nutrient loss from slurry spreading will be combined with the assessment of nutrient loss from fertilizer spreading in the final version of the review which will be complete in May 2003. The principal findings in the review to date are as follows;i The interaction of climate and soil properties is the primary cause of overland flow. i The source of nitrate leaching from agricultural land is excessive fertilizer N or mineralisation of crop residues and soil organic matter. Leaching losses are highest in autumn and winter so slurry applied at the start of this period can contribute to pollution. i Rainfall events immediately after a spreading event are particularly likely to be associated with nutrient runoff losses.i Phosphorus losses from agricultural soil to water bodies are mainly related to the excessive accumulation of P in soil as a result of long-term inputs of fertiliser.i Field drainage in heavy clay soils creates preferential flow pathways. This reduces waterlogging but also increases the risk of nutrient loss to drains and waterways. i A spreading criterion is presented which limits the risk of overland flow in the three or four days after spreading slurry when the risk of nutrient loss is greatest.

Grant Approved

�28,443.41

Research Hub

Natural Environment

Research Theme

Improve our Knowledge on the State of our Water Resources and Pressures

Start Date

01/11/2000

Initial Projected Completion Date

n/a