Who We Are
The Soil Fertility and Nutrient Cycling Lab investigates nutrient dynamics in various cropping systems, with a particular focus on nitrogen. Our research spans manure management, nitrogen contributions from legumes and small grains, and the use of sensor technologies to enhance nutrient use efficiency.
Recent Posts
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Approaches to Estimating Manure Nitrogen Credits
In this article Dr. Rayne and Dr. Rebecca Larson explore: 1) approaches used to calculate plant available N (PAN) from manure; 2) research methods used to develop “book values” or availability coefficients; 3) soil test indices that might help farmers determine manure N availability from a specific manure application. Approaches to Estimating Manure Nitrogen Credits…
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April 2025, Natasha Rayne Ph.D| Manure Nitrogen Credits: What do we know, and what’s next?
This video features Dr. Natasha Rayne, assistant professor and extension soil fertility specialist at UW–Madison, discussing the concept of manure nitrogen credits and their importance in agricultural nutrient management. She explains how nitrogen credits are calculated, the variability in nitrogen content across different types of manure, and the factors affecting nitrogen availability. The presentation highlights…
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January 2025, Natasha Rayne Ph.D | Wisconsin Agri-Business Classic
View more details: Updating A2809 What’s New, What’s Next Recent Posts
Research Focus
Soil Fertility & Nutrient Cycling Lab’s research focuses on three areas, along with collaborative projects.
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1. Manure and nutrient availability in cropping systems
It is well known that manure has many benefits for the soil and that it is an important resource for Wisconsin farmers. In addition, the practice of processing manure to reduce its volume and concentrate the nutrients is increasingly adopted and questions arise about nutrient availability from raw and processed manures. Specifically, how manure nutrient credits and losses are affected by processing, and various management, and environmental factors.
2. Crop canopy sensors and variable rate technology
The research seeks to incorporate these tools to investigate in-season nitrogen availability from organic sources and commercial fertilizers with the goal of developing nutrient recommendations using this technology.
3. Nitrogen management in small grains and forages
- Small grains. Nitrogen fertility has a significant effect not only on production but also on the quality characteristics of small grains such as wheat and barley. Our research will investigate the economic optimum nitrogen rate for different varieties of small grains growing on different soil types while also investigating the effect of nitrogen rate and timing on the production and quality of the grains.
- Forages. Both small grains and legumes are utilized as animal feed. Our research will investigate nitrogen credits from pure legume stands and grass inter-seeded legumes. In summary, our work seeks to contribute to developing and refining nutrient recommendations for corn, small grains, and forages, and expand the knowledge on nutrient credits from organic sources.