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MSU studies impact of stacked conservation practices on P loss

Research at Michigan State University is exploring how layering multiple conservation practices can reduce phosphorus loss.

Biosystems and Agricultural Engineering researcher Ehsan Ghane tells Brownfield improving soil health through regenerative agriculture, managing nutrients and water, as well as phosphorus removal structures can help nutrients stay on farm fields.

“Phosphorus is soluble in the water and if we can manage how much water leaves the farm, we can also manage the phosphorus leaving the farm,” he explains.  “Less water leaving the farm means less phosphorus leaving the farm, really.”

Ghane has created different drainage design tools to help farmers avoid drainage issues and increase profitability as part of his work to improve water quality.

Ghane says he’s currently analyzing saturated buffers which combine three different conservation practices in one location.

“They have a buffer strip, they force water through the soil, and they have a controlled drainage built into it,” he says.  “It’s a really great practice, we’re really excited about showing its effectiveness.”

Ghane says is planning a tile drainage workshop next February for farmers interested in reducing nutrient loss and improving water management in fields.