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Leachate and soil quality under turfgrass cultivation

University of British Columbia

The use of irrigation and fertilizer are the two key inputs to achieve and maintain healthy turfgrass growth. However, the over-watering and over-fertilizing that are commonly seen in the management of turfgrass have the potential to leach nitrogen and phosphorus into groundwater. To help address the magnitude of these potential problems, an experiment was conducted in the greenhouse to examine the effects of different watering practices (both quantity and irrigation frequency) and the fertilizer on leachate quality. The purpose of the study was to investigate water use and the leaching of nutrients, especially available nitrogen and phosphorus, and to relate the findings to the present situation in the Greater Vancouver Regional District. Results showed that the amount of nitrate, ammonia and phosphorus leached are directly proportional to the amount of irrigation water being applied to the turfgrass system. Significant leaching of nitrate was found from turfgrass systems under all treatments studied. The frequency of irrigation has a direct effect on leaching of nutrients. Nitrogen content in the grass clippings was found to show an immediate response to fertilizer applications. Nitrogen content in the soil under turfgrass cultivation was found to be independent on the amount of irrigation water applied. Excessive irrigation resulted ,in poor growth of turfgrass and high nutrient (both nitrogen and phosphorus) leaching. Current irrigation frequency (twice per week) as regulated by GVRD water restrictions appear to be appropriate but the amount of irrigation water applied is considered excessive. The Jensen-Haise method was found to be an appropriate approach to determine turfgrass evapotranspiration rate (water requirement) on a weekly basis. This study concluded that application of an appropriate amount of water twice weekly in equal amounts can achieve and maintain good growth of turf and reduce nutrient leaching significantly.

Thesis/Dissertation

application/pdf

2009-05-19

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http://hdl.handle.net/2429/7934

Chemical and Bio-Resource Engineering

University of British Columbia

UBCV

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