Can a farming systems approach help minimize nitrogen losses to the environment?

• Published in: Journal of Contaminant Hydrology Vol. 20; no. 3; pp. 285 - 297
• Main Authors: Goss, M.J., Beauchamp, E.G., Miller, M.H.
• Format: Journal Article Conference Proceeding
• Language: English
• Published: Amsterdam Elsevier B.V 1995; Elsevier Science
• Subjects: Agricultural and farming systems; Agronomy. Soil science and plant productions; animal manures; application rate; Biological and medical sciences; cover crops; farming systems; farming systems research; Fundamental and applied biological sciences. Psychology; General agroecology. Agricultural and farming systems. Agricultural development. Rural area planning. Landscaping; General agronomy. Plant production; Generalities. Agricultural and farming systems. Agricultural development; leaching; nitrates; nitrogen; Nitrogen fertilization; nitrogen fertilizers; Nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium fertilizations; pollution control; Soil-plant relationships. Soil fertility. Fertilization. Amendments; volatilization; Nitrogen fertilization; Farming system; Nitrogen cycle; Review; Farm input; Environmental protection
• ISSN: 0169-7722; 1873-6009
• DOI: 10.1016/0169-7722(95)00074-7

Farming practices are often developed to tackle one aspect of a problem without due regard to other possible consequences. Nutrient management systems commonly concentrate on maximizing yields rather than attempting to balance the needs of the crop with the desire to minimize contamination of the environment. Particular problems are shown to be associated with utilization of animal manures on arable crops, and the move towards soil conservation practices, especially the use of cover crops. We suggest that nutrient budgets provide a suitable format for developing a systems approach. We consider the issues associated with managing nitrogen for whole farm systems, taking account of the need for efficient production and protection of the environment from losses by leaching and in gaseous form. Finally, we suggest a role for expert groups in developing a systems approach.