Crop residue conservation during fallow and erosion risk in west central Saskatchewan
Date
1989-02-16
Authors
Haak, D.
Power, K.
McNally, S.
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Abstract
Summerfallow is considered to be a necessary practice to replenish soil moisture reserves in much of west central Saskatchewan. Unfortunately, this practice has been largely responsible for severe erosion in the
past. Recently many farmers have attempted to keep more crop residue on the soil surface, by using herbicides and wide blade cultivators to control weeds during the fallow period. Much of the increase in these practices has been due to assistance programs provided by PFRA, Saskatchewan Agriculture (e.g., Save Our Soils (SOS) program), Ducks Unlimited and other organizations. This paper looks at the effectiveness of these projects in mainta1n1ng crop residue to minimize erosion. Included are evaluations of weed control, costs, subsequent crop yields and farmer perceptions. Results of a crop residue survey are also presented. This survey provides a good comparison with the project fields. It also enables one to forecast erosion potential for the following winter, spring, and summer seasons. While the paper focuses mainly on 1988 activities, it should be noted that similar work was done in 1986-87.
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Soils and Crops Workshop