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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June 12, 2024, Natasha Rayne Ph.D: Badger Connect | “Crop Sensors, Manure, and Everything In-Between”
The June 12 Badger Crop Connect webinar features Dr. Natasha Rayne, a new Extension faculty specialist in soil fertility. Dr. Rayne introduces us to her and her work and research in soil fertility. She discusses the relationships between nutrient management, remote sensing, manure, and other aspects of her soil fertility research program. See Details on…
Research Focus
Soil Fertility & Nutrient Cycling Lab’s research focuses on three areas, along with collaborative projects.
Visit Research for more:
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.