Progress 05/01/10 to 04/30/15
Outputs
Target Audience:PI no longer works for Washington State University, no information to report. Changes/Problems:PI no longer works for Washington State University, no information to report. What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?PI no longer works for Washington State University, no information to report. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?PI no longer works for Washington State University, no information to report. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?PI no longer works for Washington State University, no information to report.
Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals?
PI no longer works for Washington State University, no information to report.
Publications
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Progress 10/01/13 to 09/30/14
Outputs
Target Audience: Professional turfgrass managers, parks and recreation managers, low impact development, rain gardens and general turfgrass users. Changes/Problems: Dr. Stahnke has retired from WSU and there is not a trained turfgrass person on site at this time. The project terms this year, which by then, Drs. Stahnke and Hummel will have the last of their papers published on the data thatthey have already collected with Nate Stacey, Dr. Stahnke'sMasters student. What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided? One, 3-hour presentation was given to the Sports Turf Managers Association on this subject matter in conjunction with Dr. Beth Guertal from Auburn University in the past year. Communication of the results was also provided to practitioners participating in the Green Gardening Workshop. This workshop is funded by Seattle Public Utilities and provides education and training to landscape, nursery and design professionals. Also, Dr. Rita Hummel and I acquired funding from the Washington State Department of Agriculture Nursery Surcharge Fund and we used those funds to help with plant adaptation for the rain gardens in addition to the fertility portion of the research. Dr. Hummel and I gave 6 tours of the rain garden facilities to Master gardeners from 2 counties, 2 school districts and 2 professional groups in the past year to increase their knowledge of what plants will survive and do well under our conditions in western WA. A 'Rain Gardens & More' Workshop was presented on September 12, 2014 in Puyallup, WA, to landscape design, construction and maintenance professionals, horticultural educators, Master Gardeners and local government staff. Rain gardens or shallow depressions in the landscape filled with soil media and plants are increasing in popularity as a method of storm water treatment. Rain gardens utilize the biological, physical, and chemical properties of plants, soil media, and microorganisms to infiltrate water and filter pollutants. Plants must tolerate the wet winters of the Pacific Northwest as well as the dry summers, preferably without supplemental irrigation. During wet seasons, rain gardens will have different hydrologic zones, varying from temporarily saturated, oxygen-deprived conditions in low areas to dry conditions in the upper area that merges with the existing landscape. For long-term success of the rain garden, proper soil conditions, plant selection and installation techniques are essential. Plants and soil mixes for rain gardens and results from the on-going low impact development rain garden research project at Washington State University Puyallup were presented at several venues. In addition to the workshop,7 presentations/tours concerning the plants in the WSU Puyallup rain gardens and/or mesocosms were given to students from the Evergreen State College & WSU, members of the ARCS Foundation's Seattle Chapter, attendees of the Pacific Northwest Chapter of the Society of Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry's annual meeting, attendees of the Pacific Education Institute's Teachers Workshop, storm water professionals, scientists, engineers and Master Gardeners. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest? These research results have been published in two differing venues, one a research publication and the other a popular journal that isdistributed world-wide for turfgrass managers to read and use in the field. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals? I am no longer employed by WSU, so I will no longer be the head researcher for this project. There are no grants currently to support this work. I will be an adjunct professor and will assist in other areas on this project with Dr. Rita Hummel in Plant Adaptation in bioretention to write one to two more papers on research work we still need to analyze.
Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals?
Phosphorus applications have been evaluated in fertilizer applications to turfgrasses over a period of 2 years. From this research, 3 publications were produced. Adaptation of grasses to bioretention areas willcontinue to be evaluated over the last year of this project.
Publications
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Progress 01/01/13 to 09/30/13
Outputs
Target Audience: Professional turfgrass managers, parks and recreation managers, low impact development, rain gardens and general turfgrass users. Changes/Problems: Dr. Stahnke has retired from WSU and there is not a trained turfgrass person on site at this time. The project ends in one year, which by then, Drs. Hummel andStahnke will have the last oftheir papers published on the datathey have already collected with a Masters student. The next turfgrass professional to be hired will have to fund his/her own project in which ever area they are going to concentrate their efforts. What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided? One, 3-hour presentation was given to the Sports Turf Managers Association on this subject in conjunction with Dr. Beth Guertal from Auburn University.Also, Dr. Rita Hummel andDr. Gwen Stahnkeacquired funding from the Washington State Department of Agriculture Nursery Surcharge Fund and used those funds to help with plant adaptation for the rain gardens in addition to the fertility portion of the research. Drs. Hummel andStahnke gave at least 6 tours of the rain garden facilities to Master gardeners from 2 counties, 2 school districts and 2 professional groups in the past year in order to increase their knowledge of what plants will survive and do well under our conditions in western WA. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest? These research results have been published in two differing venues, one a research publication and the other a popular journal that is read world-wideby turfgrass managers. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals? Dr. Stahnke isno longer employed by WSU, so will no longer be the head researcher for this project. There are no grants currently to support this work.Stahnke will be an adjunct professor and will assist in other areas on this project with Dr. Rita Hummelto write one to two more papers on research work which is still beinganalyzed.
Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals?
Phosphorus applications have been evaluated in fertilizer applications to turfgrasses over a two yearperiod. From this research, three publications were produced. Adaptation of grasses to bioretention areas will still be evaluated over the last year of this project.
Publications
- Type:
Other
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2012
Citation:
Stahnke, G.K., E.D. Miltner, C.C. Cogger, et. al. 2012. Phosphorus and home lawns: Quick facts and recommendations. Cooperative Extension Fact Sheet. FS058E. Washington State University, Pullman, WA.
- Type:
Journal Articles
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2013
Citation:
Stahnke, G.K., Cogger, C.C., Miltner E. D., Luchterhand, R. A. and Bembenek, R. E . 2013. Phosphorous Availability In Turfgrass Root Zones After Applications of Organic and Synthetic Nitrogen Fertilizers. Online. Applied Turfgrass Management. doi: 10.1094/ATS-2013-325-01-RS.
- Type:
Journal Articles
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2013
Citation:
Stahnke, G.K., Cogger, C.C., Miltner, E.D., Luchterhand, R.A. and Bembenek, R.E. Phosphorus availability in root zones as affected by fertilizer type. In Golf Course Management. August 2013. Pp. 78-83.
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Progress 01/01/12 to 12/31/12
Outputs
OUTPUTS: Organically-based fertilizers have increased in popularity over the past ten years mainly due to the belief that they are more environmentally friendly than synthetically produced fertilizers. Along with this premise, some states legislate the application of phosphorus (P) to lawns. Some of these states are considering the exemption of organic fertilizers from their zero-P legislation because it is thought that P from organic sources is less likely to be lost in leachate or runoff. Many of the organic fertilizers contain as much P as nitrogen (N) in their formulations, which means equal amounts of P and N are being applied with each application. Analyses of soil tests in native soil and in a fairway sand and peat mix showed that organic fertilizers applied at rates to provide adequate N for acceptable turf quality increased soil Bray-1 P levels from 16-18 mg kg-1 to as high as 66 mg kg-1 within 3 years. Oxalate extractable iron (Fe), aluminum (Al) and P was determined for all treatments in both soil and sand and used to calculate phosphorus saturation (PSIox). PSIox values from sand treated with one organic fertilizer source were significantly higher than measured in other treatments, indicating future risk of P loss with repeated applications of this organic fertilizer. PARTICIPANTS: Stahnke,G.K., C.G. Cogger, E.D. Miltner, R.E. Bembenek and R.A. Luchterhand TARGET AUDIENCES: All private and public applicators of organic fertilizers to turfgrass systems. PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: Nothing significant to report during this reporting period.
Impacts
This research does not support the exemption of organic fertilizers from turfgrass phosphorus regulation. The data in outputs was submitted as a journal article to Applied Turfgrass Science and is currentloy in review. This information was presented to the national Sports Turf Managers Association in 2012 and upon publication will be an important factor in considerations for using organic fertilizers and limiting possible P leaching by consideration of Fe and Al content in root zones. This information is especially critical for sand-based root zones where the Fe and Al can be low and leaching of P could occur.
Publications
- No publications reported this period
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Progress 01/01/11 to 12/31/11
Outputs
OUTPUTS: A study initiated in 2008 evaluated management programs for transitioning from synthetic to natural organic fertilizers. The objective was to compensate for incomplete N release of natural organics. Transition programs included increased annual fertilization rates and alternating natural organic and synthetic fertilizers. For one of the natural organic fertilizers, N release has been adequate to maintain turf quality, with no compensation necessary. For the other fertilizer, N release has been slower. Increasing the N rate by 50% or alternating with a synthetic fertilizer effectively compensated for this slower N release. Because natural organics have relatively low nutrient contents, high rates of product must be applied. Turf managers have reported that this may impact infiltration rates. Infiltration was measured prior to the initiation of the study in 2008, and again after one and two years of fertilization. No differences have been detected. Construction of biorentention cells for managing stormwater runoff was completed in 2010. These were divided into quadrants and seeded to four grass species (colonial bentgrass, tall fescue, fine fescue, and tufted hairgrass, Deschampsia cespitosa). Tufted hairgrass did not establish successfully. After an unsuccessful re-seeding, this treatment was replaced with a mixture of colonial bentgrass/fine fescue. All plots reached full ground coverage by December. Grasses will continue to be evaluated for their adaptation for bioretention uses. Dr. Rita Hummel and Dr. Gwen Stahnke have two grant applications pending to fund data collection on the bioretention or rain garden planting areas. With Dr. Miltner's departure, as well as his technician, the samples from the natural organic trials have not been totally analyzed as of yet. It is projected to have the samples ground analyzed by early summer 2012 in order that we can run statistical analysis and proceed with a publication from these studies. PARTICIPANTS: Gwen Stahnke, Craig Cogger, William Johnston, Andy Bary, Rita Hummel, Curtis Hinman TARGET AUDIENCES: Turfgrass industry professionals, county extension educators, regulatory agencies PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: Dr. Eric Miltner is no longer with WSU and in June of 2011, I became the PI on the project.
Impacts
The use of SoundGro fertilizer and other natural organics is still expanding, and our research is helping turfgrass managers and homeowners learn to use these products effectively. Presentations have been given at meetings and field days to publicize our results and offer recommendations. The organic fertilizer research has also drawn attention in Canada. There was a cutting edge research summary article in Golf Course Management in March of 2011. The use of Low Impact Development practices is expanding rapidly. Bioretention research will be applied by developers in meeting permit requirements and to protect surface water quality. Collection of data on plants will verify the adaptation of the plants to rain garden situations and their ability to filter nutrients out of the water.
Publications
- No publications reported this period
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Progress 01/01/10 to 12/31/10
Outputs
OUTPUTS: Two studies to evaluate the agronomic effects of organically based fertilizers were initiated in 2006. SoundGro, a dry biosolids product produced locally, was compared to Milorganite (another dry biosolids product), polymer coated sulfur coated urea (PCSCU), and ammonium sulfate. Fertilizer was applied in March, May, July, September, and November of 2006 though 2009. Biosolids fertilizers had slower initial release rates compared to PCSCU. Response to SoundGro compared favorably to Milorganite. For best results, biosolids fertilizers should be applied at a rate 1.5 times higher than synthetic fertilizers to compensate for recalcitrant forms of N. Biosolids fertilizers were less effective when applied in November. The second study assessed the impacts of five organically based fertilizers, one synthetic organic slow-release product, and two inorganic products for their impacts on weed population and turf quality. After one year, N uptake from five natural organic fertilizers was 77% of that from synthetic fertilizers. After three years, the ratio increased to 85%. This is an indication that organic N became more available with time. Year 4 clipping yields indicate that this trend is continuing. At the end of year 4, fertilizer applications were stopped. Clipping yields in year 5 indicate that treatments previously fertilized with slow release or organic fertilizers had higher yield than those fertilized with quick-release fertilizers, further evidence of long-term N release from organic fertilizers. Through four years, there is a trend for greater dandelion populations in three natural organic fertilizer treatments compared to synthetic fertilizers. A study initiated in 2008 evaluated management programs for transitioning from synthetic to natural organic fertilizers. The objective was to compensate for incomplete N release of natural organics. Transition programs included increased annual fertilization rates and alternating natural organic and synthetic fertilizers. For one of the natural organic fertilizers, N release has been adequate to maintain turf quality, with no compensation necessary. For the other fertilizer, N release has been slower. Increasing the N rate by 50% or alternating with a synthetic fertilizer effectively compensated for this slower N release. Because natural organics have relatively low nutrient contents, high rates of product must be applied. Turf managers have reported that this may impact infiltration rates. Infiltration was measured prior to the initiation of the study in 2008, and again after one and two years of fertilization. No differences have been detected. Construction of bioretention cells for managing stormwater runoff was completed in 2010. These were divided into quadrants and seeded to four grass species (colonial bentgrass, tall fescue, fine fescue, and tufted hairgrass, Deschampsia cespitosa). Tufted hairgrass did not establish successfully. After an unsuccessful re-seeding, this treatment was replaced with a mixture of colonial bentgrass/fine fescue. All plots reached full ground coverage by December. Grasses will continue to be evaluated for their adaptation for bioretention uses. PARTICIPANTS: Gwen Stahnke, Craig Cogger, William Johnston, Andy Bary, Rita Hummel, Curtis Hinman TARGET AUDIENCES: Turfgrass industry professionals, county extension educators, regulatory agencies PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: None.
Impacts
The use of SoundGro fertilizer and other natural organics is expanding rapidly, and our research is helping turfgrass managers to use these products effectively. Presentations have been given at meetings and field days to publicize our results and offer recommendations. The organic fertilizer research has also drawn attention in Canada, and was presented at the Canadian Golf Course Superintendents Association National Conference in March 2008, with an accompanying article in their trade journal. Use of Low Impact Development practices is expanding rapidly. Bioretention research will be applied by developers in meeting permit requirements and to protect surface water quality.
Publications
- No publications reported this period
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Progress 01/01/09 to 12/31/09
Outputs
OUTPUTS: For two years, concentrations of pesticides and nutrients were monitored at entry and exit points of streams bisecting two golf courses in western Washington. For each site, there was one incident in which pesticide content in stream water was attributed to golf course pesticide application. Nutrient concentrations did not significantly change between entry and exit points. Two studies to evaluate the agronomic effects of organically based fertilizers used in turfgrass were initiated in 2006. SoundGro, a dry biosolids product produced by Pierce County, WA, was compared to Milorganite (another dry biosolids product), polymer coated sulfur coated urea (PCSCU), and ammonium sulfate, on turf growing in sand and fine sandy loam soil. Fertilizer treatments were applied in March, May, July, September, and November of 2006 though 2009. Biosolid fertilizers had slower initial release rates compared to PCSCU. Response to SoundGro compared favorably to Milorganite, but SoundGro had quicker release during the first four weeks. For best results, biosolids fertilizers should be applied at a rate 1.5 times higher than synthetic fertilizers in order to compensate for recalcitrant forms of N. Biosolids fertilizers were less effective when applied in November. The second study assessed the impacts of five organically based fertilizers, one synthetic organic slow-release product, and two inorganic products for their impacts on weed population and turf quality. An earlier research project resulted in higher broadleaf weeds in plots fertilized with a natural organic product. The current study evaluates a broader range of organic products. After one year, average N uptake from the five natural organic fertilizers was 77% of the uptake from the synthetic fertilizers. After three years, the ratio had increased to 85%. This is an indication that organic N is becoming more available with time. Although not statistically significant, there was a trend for greater dandelion numbers in three of the natural organic fertilizer treatments compared to the synthetic fertilizers. A study initiated in 2008 evaluated management programs for transitioning from synthetic to natural organic fertilizers. The objective was to compensate for the less-complete N release of natural organics. Transition programs evaluated included increased annual fertilization rates, alternating natural organic and synthetic fertilizers, and utilizing "bridge" products (products containing both natural organic and synthetic fertilizers). Natural organic fertilizers at the normal (1x) rate maintained acceptable turfgrass quality for most, but not all, rating periods. Treatments receiving either alternating organic and synthetic fertilizers, or 1.5x rates of organics, maintained better turf quality. Because natural organics have relatively low nutrient contents, high rates of product must be applied. Turf managers have reported that this may impact surface soil characteristics, including infiltration rates. Infiltration was measured prior to the initiation of the study in 2008, and again after one year of fertilization in 2009. Differences have not been detected to date. PARTICIPANTS: WSU and OSU scientists, turf industry consultants, and golf course superintendents. TARGET AUDIENCES: Golf course superintendents and other turfgrass managers, fertilizer and chemical sales staff and consultants, extension professionals, government and regulatory personnel. PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: Nothing significant to report during this reporting period.
Impacts
Pesticide and nutrient monitoring data was used to help finalize the publication of Environmental Stewardship Guidelines sponsored by several Pacific Northwest turfgrass industry professional organizations. The use of SoundGro fertilizer and other natural organics is expanding rapidly, and our research is helping golf course superintendents and others use these products effectively. Presentations have been given at meetings and field days to publicize our results and offer recommendations. The organic fertilizer research has also drawn attention in Canada, and was presented at the Canadian Golf Course Superintendents Association National Conference in March 2008, with an accompanying article in their trade journal.
Publications
- Williams, M.W., W.J.Johnston, C.T.Golob, J.Yenish, and E.D.Miltner. 2009. Glasshouse evaluation of pre-plant and at planting applications of mesotrione on perennial ryegrass and chewings fescue. International Turfgrass Society Research Journal 11:1237-1245.
- Miltner, E.D., M.Hindahl, T.Cook, and G.K.Stahnke. 2009. Surface Water Quality Impacts from Golf Course Fertilizer and Pesticide Applications. International Turfgrass Society Research Journal 11.
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Progress 01/01/08 to 12/31/08
Outputs
OUTPUTS: Suction lysimeters were installed in roughs, fairways, grass buffers, and artificial wetlands on a golf course. Over two years, 396 samples were collected and analyzed for nitrate-N. Only 14 samples exceeded 10 mg/L. Over 80% (329) of the samples had concentrations below 1.0 mg/L. The highest concentrations were usually found in tall grass buffers downslope of fertilized turf. Samplers installed deeper in the soil in these locations indicated little downward movement of nitrate-N. Of the 342 samples analyzed for orthophosphate, 278 (81%) had concentrations below 0.05 mg/L, and 101 (30%) were below the limit of detection (0.01 mg/L). Two studies to evaluate the agronomic effects of organically based fertilizers used in turfgrass were initiated in 2006. SoundGro, a dry biosolid product produced by Pierce County, WA, is being compared to Milorganite (another dry biosolid product), polymer coated sulfur coated urea (PCSCU), and ammonium sulfate, on turf growing in sand and fine sandy loam soil. Fertilizer treatments are applied in March, May, July, September, and November of each year. Biosolid fertilizers had slower initial release rates compared to PCSCU, especially from Oct through Apr. Plant response was similar among products during other months. Response to SoundGro compared favorably to Milorganite, but SoundGro had quicker release during the first four weeks. In the late winter of 2008, earlier green-up was noted from the SoundGro treatment compared to Milorganite. The second study assesses the impacts of five organically based fertilizers, one synthetic organic slow-release product, and two inorganic products for their impacts on weed population and turf quality. An earlier research project resulted in higher broadleaf weeds in plots fertilized with a natural organic product. The current study evaluates a broader range of organic products. Over the first two years, total N recovery in grass clippings was highest for calcium nitrate (70% of the amount applied). Uptake from natural organic sources was 60 to 78% of that from calcium nitrate. Dandelion populations increased during 2008. Although not statistically significant, there was a trend for greater dandelion numbers in three of the natural organic fertilizer treatments compared to the synthetic fertilizers. Two of these three products also resulted in the lowest N recovery. A study initiated in 2008 evaluates management programs for transitioning from synthetic to natural organic fertilizers. The objective is to compensate for the less-complete N release of natural organics, while maintaining turf health and quality. Transition programs being evaluated include increased annual fertilization rates, alternating natural organic and synthetic fertilizers, and utilizing "bridge" products (products containing both natural organic and synthetic fertilizers). Because natural organics have relatively low nutrient contents, high rates of product must be applied. Turf managers have reported that this may impact surface soil characteristics, including infiltration rates. Surface organic matter and infiltration rates are being monitored. PARTICIPANTS: WSU scientists and extension specialists; Pierce County, WA Environmental Services Division; Northwest Biosolids Management Association; WA State Dept of Agriculture; Northwest Turfgrass Association; local golf course superintendents. TARGET AUDIENCES: Professional turf managers, homeowners. PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: A reflectance meter was acquired in 2008. This will allow us to more accurately assess turfgrass color response to fertilizer applications. This technology has also been shown to be well-correlated to tissue nitrogen content.
Impacts
Results of the N mobility study are conveyed to golf course superintendents to help them design management systems that limit negative impacts on water quality. Buffers and bioswales are becoming more common as methods to increase residence time of runoff and allow for nutrient filtering, especially on sand-capped courses. We recently received funding to construct a biofiltration cell on a local golf course, to be used for education and demonstration. The use of SoundGro fertilizer and other natural organics is expanding rapidly, and our research is helping golf course superintendents and others use these products effectively. Several presentations have been given at meetings and field days to publicize our results and offer recommendations. The organic fertilizer research has also drawn attention in Canada, and was presented at the Canadian Golf Course Superintendents Association National Conference in March 2008, with an accompanying article in their trade journal. One refereed journal article has been accepted for publication, but it is not yet published. Hindahl, M.S., E. D. Miltner, and T.W. Cook. 2009. Surface water quality impacts from golf course fertilizer and pesticide applications. Intl. Turfgrass Soc. Res. J.
Publications
- No publications reported this period
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Progress 01/01/07 to 12/31/07
Outputs
OUTPUTS: Fifty one ceramic cup suction lysimeters were installed in roughs, fairways, grass buffers, and artificial wetlands on a golf course constructed with a sand cap overlying the entire property. Over 15 sampling dates, 396 samples were collected and analyzed for nitrate-N. Only 14 samples (3.5%) exceeded the EPA drinking water threshold of 10 mg/L, with a maximum concentration of 81 mg/L. Approximately 83% (329) of the samples had concentrations below 1.0 mg/L. The highest concentrations were usually found in tall grass buffers down slope of fertilized turf. Samplers installed deeper in the soil in these locations indicated little downward movement of nitrate-N. The highest concentration of nitrate-N found in surface water of wetlands or lakes was 1.4 ppm (only 2 samples were above 0.25 ppm). Of the 342 samples analyzed for orthophosphate, 278 (81%) had concentrations below 0.05 mg/L, and 101 samples (30%) were below the limit of detection (0.01 mg/L). During 2006 we designed
studies to more accurately assess the fate of this N. However, the ownership and management of the golf course changed in 2007 and we are unable to continue this research on this site. Two studies to evaluate the agronomic effects of organically-based fertilizers used in turfgrass were initiated in 2006. The first of these investigates SoundGro, a new dry biosolid product produced by Pierce County, WA. The product is being compared to Milorganite (another dry biosolid product), a polymer coated sulfur coated urea, and ammonium sulfate, on turf growing in both sand and fine sandy loam soil. Fertilizer treatments are applied in March, May, July, September, and November of each year. Visual turf ratings and grass clipping samples are collected at 4, 8, 12, and 16 weeks after each fertilizer application and analyzed for N content. Data indicates that the biosolid fertilizers have slower initial release rates compared to the coated slow release fertilizer, especially in months of cooler
weather (October through April). Plant visual response and clipping N content in response to biosolid fertilizers are similar to the coated product during other months. Response to SoundGro compares favorably to Milorganite, but SoundGro has quicker release during the first four weeks. The second study assesses the impacts of five organically-based fertilizers, one synthetic organic slow-release product, and two inorganic products for their impacts on weed population and turf quality. An earlier research project resulted in higher broadleaf weeds in plots fertilized with a natural organic product. The objective of the current study is to evaluate a broader range of organic products, and to identify the reason for higher weed populations. Total N recovery in grass clippings over the first year was highest for calcium nitrate, approximately 80% of the amount applied. Uptake from natural organic sources was 60 to 80% of that from calcium nitrate. Weed populations are low and there are no
differences to date, but numbers did increase in the second half of 2007. Populations will continue to be monitored as the fertilizer programs continue.
PARTICIPANTS: Personnel from Washington State University, Pierce County Environmental Services, and local golf courses.
TARGET AUDIENCES: Scientific colleagues, professional turfgass managers, and the general public.
Impacts
Results of the N mobility study are conveyed to golf course superintendents to help them design management systems that limit negative impacts on water quality. Buffers and bioswales are becoming more common as methods to increase residence time of runoff and allow for nutrient filtering, especially on sand-capped courses. We recently received funding to construct a biofiltration cell on a local golf course, to be used for education and demonstration. The use of SoundGro fertilizer is expanding rapidly, especially in the south Puget Sound region, and our research is helping golf course superintendents and others use the product effectively. Several presentations have been given at meetings and field days to publicize our results and offer recommendations. The organic fertilizer research has also drawn attention in Canada, and will be presented at the Canadian Golf Course Superintendents Association National Conference in March 2008, with an accompanying article in
their trade journal.
Publications
- No publications reported this period
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Progress 01/01/06 to 12/31/06
Outputs
Fifty-one ceramic cup suction lysimeters were installed in the soil of roughs, fairways, grass buffers, and artificial wetlands on a golf course constructed with a sand cap overlying the entire property. Over 15 sampling dates, 396 samples were collected and analyzed for nitrate-N. Only 14 samples (3.5%) exceeded the EPA drinking water threshold of 10 mg/L, with a maximum concentration of 81 mg/L. Approximately 83% (329) of the samples had concentrations below 1.0 mg/L. The highest concentrations were usually found in tall grass buffers in collection areas down slope of fertilized turf. Samplers installed deeper in the soil in these locations indicated little downward movement of nitrate-N. We are currently designing studies to more accurately assess the fate of this N. The highest concentration of nitrate-N found in surface water of wetlands or lakes was 1.4 ppm (only 2 samples were above 0.25 ppm). Of the 342 samples analyzed for orthophosphate, 278 (81%) had
concentrations below 0.05 mg/L, and 101 samples (30%) were below the limit of detection (0.01 mg/L). Two studies to evaluate the agronomic effects of organically based fertilizers used in turfgrass were initiated in 2006. The first of these investigates a new dry biosolid product produced by Pierce County, WA. The product is being compared to Milorganite (another dry biosolid product), a polymer coated sulfur coated urea, and ammonium sulfate, on turf growing in both sand and fine sandy loam soil. Fertilizer treatments were applied in July, September, and November. Visual turf response ratings were collected throughout the fall. Grass clipping samples were also collected at 2, 4, 8, 12, and 16 weeks after each fertilization, and are awaiting analysis. The second study assesses the impacts of five organically based fertilizers, one synthetic organic slow-release product, and two inorganic products for their impacts on weed population and turf quality. Previous research resulted in
higher broadleaf weeds in plots fertilized with a natural organic product. Fertilizer treatments were applied in September and November. Grass clippings were harvested and are awaiting analysis for total N recovery during the upcoming winter. Initial weed populations were counted in September and visual quality ratings were recorded monthly.
Impacts
This information is being conveyed to golf course superintendents to help them design management systems that limit negative impacts on water quality. Buffers and bioswales are becoming more common as methods to increase residence time of runoff and allow for nutrient filtering, especially on sand-capped courses. Research on organic fertilizer products should result in a greater understanding of N dynamics in these highly variable products. Information has been delivered through presentations at meetings in the Pacific Northwest and Canada and articles in trade journals. Refereed scientific publications will be developed in the coming year.
Publications
- No publications reported this period
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Progress 01/01/05 to 12/31/05
Outputs
Fifty one ceramic cup suction lysimeters were installed in the soil of roughs, fairways, grass buffers, and artificial wetlands on a golf course constructed with a sand cap overlying the entire property. Over 15 sampling dates, 396 samples were collected and analyzed for nitrate-N. Only 14 samples (3.5%) exceeded the EPA drinking water threshold of 10 mg/L, with a maximum concentration of 81 mg/L. Approximately 83% (329) of the samples had concentrations below 1.0 mg/L. The highest concentrations were usually found in tall grass buffers in collection areas down slope of fertilized turf. Samplers installed deeper in the soil in these locations indicated little downward movement on nitrate-N. The highest concentration of nitrate-N found in surface water of wetlands or lakes was 1.4 ppm (only 2 samples were above 0.25 ppm). Of the 342 samples analyzed for orthophosphate, 278 (81%) had concentrations below 0.05 mg/L, an 101 samples (30%) were below the limit of detection
(0.01 mg/L). Two golf courses with fish-bearing streams that pass through the properties were monitored for potential input of golf course fertilizers and pesticides into the surface waters. Paired samples were collected monthly for two years at the points where the streams entered and exited the respective properties. At one location, only one pesticide detection occurred throughout this period. This was attributed to an herbicide (triclopyr) that was applied to the course in spot applications during the month preceding the sampling event. At the second site, pesticides were detected on nine different dates. Presence of more than one pesticide on several dates resulted in 13 total detection events. Ten of these events were attributed to inputs upstream from the golf course (herbicides most likely applied for roadside vegetation control). One event was attributed to a fungicide (chlorothalonil) applied to the course five months prior to the sampling event. Two events were of unknown
origin. In these cases, the pesticides were detected in samples collected at the exit points, but not at the entry points. Neither material had been applied on the golf course. One potential source was the residential neighborhood located uphill from the course, but there was no way to confirm this. There were no significant inputs of either nitrate-N or orthophosphate into the streams from either golf course.
Impacts
This information is being conveyed to golf course superintendents to help them design management systems that limit negative impacts on water quality. The use of sand capping in golf course construction, as well as sand profile creation through topdressing on older courses, has become prevalent throughout the northwest. Buffers and bioswales are becoming more common as methods to increase residence time of runoff and allow for nutrient filtering, especially on sand-capped courses. The stream monitoring research is being used to better understand conditions that might lead to potential surface water contamination. In addition, affordable and effective water-quality monitoring programs that can be implemented on individual golf courses have been demonstrated. Information has been delivered through presentations at meetings in the Pacific Northwest and Canada and articles in trade journals. Refereed scientific publications will be developed in the coming year.
Publications
- Miltner, E.D., G. K. Stahnke, G. J. Rinehart, and P.A. Backman. 2005. Seeding of creeping bluegrass [Poa annua L.f reptans (Hauskins) T. Koyama] into existing golf course putting greens. HortScience 40(23):457-459.
- Miltner, E.D., G. K. Stahnke, G. J. Rinehart. 2005. Mowing height, nitrogen rate, and organic and synthetic fertilizer effects on perennial ryegrass quality and pest occurrence. Intl. Turfgrass Soc. Res. J. 10:982-988.
- Rinehart, G.J., E.D. Miltner, and G.K. Stahnke. 2005. Nitrogen rate and mowing height effects on turfgrass quality and thatch development of colonial, velvet, and dryland bentgrasses. Intl. Turfgrass Soc. Res. J. 10:422-427.
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Progress 01/01/04 to 12/31/04
Outputs
Forty-three ceramic cup suction lysimeters were installed in the soil of roughs, fairways, grass buffers, and artificial wetlands on a golf course constructed with a sand cap overlying the entire property. To date, 396 samples have been collected and analyzed for nitrate-N. Only 14 samples have exceeded the EPA drinking water threshold of 10 mg/L, and the maximum concentration was 81 mg/L. Approximately 75% (296) of the samples have had concentrations below 0.5 mg/L. Samples collected from fertilized fairways usually measured less than 0.5 mg/L, although one location had several detections ranging from 3 to 24 mg/L. The highest concentrations were usually found in tall grass buffers in collection areas down slope of fertilized turf. Additional samplers were installed deeper in the soil in locations where concentrations regularly exceeded 1 mg/L. Samples collected from these lysimeters indicate little downward movement on nitrate-N. Of the 342 samples analyzed for
orthophosphate, 278 (81%) had concentrations below 0.05 mg/L, the threshold often cited for eutrophication of surface waters. Two golf courses with fish-bearing streams that pass through the properties have been monitored for potential input of golf course fertilizers and pesticides into the surface waters. Paired samples were collected monthly for two years at the points where the streams entered and exited the respective properties. At one location, only one pesticide detection occurred throughout this period. This was attributed to an herbicide (triclopyr) that was applied to the course in spot applications during the month preceding the sampling event. At the second site, pesticides were detected on nine different dates. Presence of more than one pesticide on several dates resulted in 13 total detection events. Ten of these events were attributed to inputs upstream from the golf course. One event was attributed to a fungicide (chlorothalonil) applied to the course five months
prior to the sampling event. Two events were of unknown origin. In these cases, the pesticides were detected in samples collected at the exit points, but not at the entry points. Neither material had been applied on the golf course. One potential source was the residential neighborhood located uphill from the course, but there was no way to confirm this. There were no significant inputs of either nitrate-N or orthophosphate into the streams from either golf course.
Impacts
This information is being conveyed to golf course superintendents to help them design management systems that limit negative impacts on water quality. The use of sand capping in golf course construction, as well as sand profile creation through topdressing on older courses, has become prevalent throughout the northwest. Buffers and bioswales are becoming more common as methods to increase residence time of runoff and allow for nutrient filtering, especially on sand-capped courses. The stream monitoring research is being used to better understand conditions that might lead to potential surface water contamination. In addition, affordable and effective water-quality monitoring programs that can be implemented on individual golf courses have been demonstrated.
Publications
- Miltner, E.D., G. K. Stahnke, G. J. Rinehart, P.A. Backman, and W.J. Johnston. 2004. Establishment of Poa annua var. reptans from seed under golf course conditions in the Pacific Northwest. Crop Sci. 44:2154-2159.
- Miltner, E.D., W.J. Johnston, G.K. Stahnke, and C.T. Golob. 2004. Late fall and winter nitrogen fertilization of turfgrass in two Pacific Northwest climates. HortScience 39(7):1745-1749.
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Progress 01/01/03 to 12/31/03
Outputs
A calcareous sand can be defined as any sand that contains at least 1% CaCO3 (calcium carbonate, or calcite) by weight. They are often used for construction of golf course putting greens and other sand-based root zone media. However, their use is discouraged because of suspected yet unconfirmed problems associated with their long-term stability. Calcareous sands may break down, resulting in restricted or plugged pore space. The result is poor drainage, restricted rooting, and eventually severe thinning or death of the turf. There are no reported systematic investigations into the occurrence or cause of this problem. Our objectives were to determine (1) if the use of calcareous sands may result in eventual failure of the root zone to support healthy plant growth and playability, and (2) to determine the mechanism of this process, and if current management practices contribute to the problem. Two column studies designed to simulate potential weathering of sand were
initiated during 2002. Both studies utilized sands with calcite contents of 0%, 3%, and 35%. In the first experiment, two acidification rates were used to simulate weathering. The first rate simulated the acidity resulting from an application of 37 kg N ha-1 month-1. The second rate was three times the first. In addition, there were two irrigation waters of varying quality. The first was deionized water with a pH of approximately 6, and the second was deionized adjusted with elevated pH (approximately 8.5) and bicarbonate levels (6 meq L-1 as KHCO3). This is similar to poor quality irrigation waters found in the western and southwestern areas of the country. Elevated bicarbonate may impact physical changes in the sand profile by precipitating free calcium. Columns were acidified every 10 days and irrigated on the remaining days for 6 months. Column treatment ended in January 2003. The columns were broken down into depth increments of 7.5 cm. These intact core increments have been
analyzed for hydraulic conductivity, and are currently being analyzed for air-filled and capillary porosity, and calcite content. In the second experiment, weathering was imposed only by irrigation with mildly acidic water (pH approximately 5.0). This pH is within the range that might normally be found in soil, as compared to the lower pH's used in the experiment above. One-half of the columns were broken down in January 2003, and the remainder in September 2003. These are being analyzed as described above.
Impacts
Research during previous years of this project indicated that calcareous sands can be changed both physically and chemically through artificial weathering processes. In addition, SEM analysis and electron dispersive spectroscopy indicated that there are two primary categories of calcareous sand based on mineralogical composition: sands of low calcite content (less than approximately 10% by weight) comprised of silica or quartz grains with surface deposits of calcite, or sands of higher calcite content containing sand-sized grains of calcium carbonate. These two occurrences of calcite may impact the performance of these sands. Results to date from the current experiments suggest that the treatments imposed on the columns may have affected hydraulic conductivity, although we have not completed all of the analyses.
Publications
- Miltner, E., A. Bary, and C. Cogger. 2003. Clopyralid and compost: Formulation and mowing effects on herbicide content of grass clippings. Compost Science and Utilization 11(4):289-299.
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Progress 01/01/02 to 12/31/02
Outputs
A calcareous sand can be defined as any sand that contains at least 1% CaCO3 (calcium carbonate, or calcite) by weight. They are often used for construction of golf course putting greens and other sand-based root zone media. However, their use is discouraged because of suspected yet unconfirmed problems associated with their long-term stability. Calcareous sands may break down, resulting in restricted or plugged pore space. The result is poor drainage, restricted rooting, and eventually severe thinning or death of the turf. There are no reported systematic investigations into the occurrence or cause of this problem. Our objectives are to determine (1) if the use of calcareous sands may result in eventual failure of the root zone to support healthy plant growth and playability, and (2) to determine the mechanism of this process, and if current management practices contribute to the problem. Two column studies designed to simulate potential weathering of sand were
initiated during 2002. Both studies utilized sands with calcite contents of 0%, 3%, and 35%. In the first experiment, two acidification rates were used to simulate weathering. The first rate simulated the acidity resulting from an application of 37 kg N ha-1 month-1. The second rate was three times the first. In addition, there were two irrigation waters of varying quality. The first was deionized water with a pH of approximately 6, and the second was deionized adjusted with elevated pH (approximately 8.5) and bicarbonate levels (6 meq L-1 as KHCO3). This is similar to poor quality irrigation waters found in the west and southwest areas of the country. Elevated bicarbonate may impact physical changes in the sand profile the weathering process by precipitating free calcium. Columns were acidified every 10 days and irrigated on the remaining days for 6 months. Column treatment ended in December 2002. The columns are currently being broken down into depth increments of 7.5 cm. These
intact core increments will be analyzed for hydraulic conductivity, air-filled and capillary porosity, and calcite content. In the second experiment, weathering was imposed only by irrigation with mildly acidic water (pH approximately 5.0). This pH is within the range that might normally be found in soil, as compared to the lower pH's used in the experiment above. One-half of the columns are currently being broken down and analyzed as described, and the other half will continue to be treated for an additional six months.
Impacts
Research during previous years of this project indicated that calcareous sands can be changed both physically and chemically through artificial weathering processes. In addition, SEM analysis and electron dispersive spectroscopy indicated that there are two primary categories of calcareous sand based on mineralogical composition: sands of low calcite content (less than approximately 10% by weight) comprised of silica or quartz grains with surface deposits of calcite, or sands of higher calcite content containing sand-sized grains of calcium carbonate. These two occurrences of calcite may impact the performance of these sands. Research during 2002 was directed towards subjecting sands to simulated field weathering conditions and measuring physical and chemical changes. Results are forthcoming.
Publications
- No publications reported this period
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Progress 01/01/01 to 12/31/01
Outputs
A calcareous sand can be defined as any sand that contains at least 1% CaCO3 (calcium carbonate, or calcite) by weight. They are often used for construction of golf course putting greens and other sand-based root zone media. However, their use is discouraged because of suspected yet unconfirmed problems associated with their long-term stability. Calcareous sands may break down, resulting in restricted or plugged pore space. The result is poor drainage, restricted rooting, and eventually severe thinning or death of the turf. There are no reported systematic investigations into the occurrence or cause of this problem. Our objectives are to determine (1) if the use of calcareous sands may result in eventual failure of the root zone to support healthy plant growth and playability, and (2) to determine the mechanism of this process, and if current management practices contribute to the problem. Recent work utilizing scanning electron microscopy indicated that there are two
different categories of calcite structure in these sands. Highly calcareous sands (70% calcite or greater) consist of discrete grains of calcite, mixed with silica particles. Sands with less than 10% calcite are comprised of quartz or silica grains with small deposits of calcite on the grains. In the intermediate range of calcite content there is a combination of the two. This may be significant because the two different forms of calcite may react and weather differently in the field. An experiment was conducted to test this theory. A sand with 3% calcite, present as surface deposits, was compared to a sand with 3% calcite present as discrete grains (created by diluting a 35% calcite sand with non-calcareous sand). The sand was packed into 1 x 12 inch PVC columns and was acidified to simulate an accelerated weathering process. Preliminary results indicate that the 3% calcite grain sand may degrade faster than the 3% surface deposit sand. Two more larger column studies are underway.
Both utilize three sands with calcite contents of 0%, 3%, and 35%. In the first experiment, two acidification rates are being used to simulate weathering. The first rate simulates the acidity resulting from an application of 37 kg N ha-1 month-1. The second rate is three times the first. In addition, there are two different irrigation waters of varying quality. The first is deionized water with a pH of approximately 6, and the second is deionized water with elevated pH (approximately 8) and bicarbonate levels. This is similar to irrigation waters of marginal quality often found in the west and southwest areas of the country. Elevated bicarbonate may impact the weathering process. Columns are being acidified and irrigated for 6 months then analyzed for hydraulic conductivity, air-filled and capillary porosity, and calcite content. In the second experiment, weathering is imposed only by irrigation with mildly acidic water (pH approximately 5.0). This pH is within the range that would
normally be found in soil, as compared to the lower pH's produced in the experiment above. Columns will be broken down after 6 months and one year and analyzed as described above.
Impacts
The current year's research indicates that the two primary mineralogical categories of calcareous sand that we have observed may degrade at different rates. This is significant because these two groups are distributed in different geographic regions. Certain regions may be impacted more by these sands based on their structure.
Publications
- No publications reported this period
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Progress 01/01/00 to 12/31/00
Outputs
Sand samples ranging in calcium carbonate (calcite) content from 0 to 80% were examined using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS). EDS identifies areas within the SEM field that contain high concentrations of specific elements, in this case calcium (Ca). EDS images were related qualitatively to chemical analyses of calcite content of samples of the same sands. There was good agreement in terms of calcium content between the two methods. From SEM and EDS inspection, it was concluded that there are two general categories of mineralogy of calcareous sands. The first is sand comprised of grains of non-calcitic minerals, with surface deposits of calcite. The second is sand comprised of grains of calcium carbonate, or mixtures of calcitic grains and non-calcitic grains. Some sands in this latter group also had surface deposits of calcite. Among the samples analyzed, sands within this first mineralogical group ranged in calcite content
from 1 to 10%. For sands in the second mineralogical group, calcite content was 30 to 80%.
Impacts
The current year's research identifies to general mineralogical categories of calcareous sands. These two different types of materials may weather differently in the field based on the composition of calcium carbonate.
Publications
- Miltner, E.D, P.R Grossl, and G.K. Stahnke. 2000. Chemical and physical stability of calcareous sands used for putting green construction. 2000 Turfgrass Environmental Research Summary, United States Golf Association, Far Hills NJ.
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Progress 01/01/99 to 12/31/99
Outputs
Two laboratory column experiments were conducted to study the weathering characteristics of calcareous sands exposed to acidifying fertilizers. In each experiment, four different sands varying in calcium carbonate (calcite) content from 0 to 70% were acidified with HCl to mimic application of N fertilizer at a rate of 36.75 kg N/ha as NH4+ every 5 days. Column percolate was collected continuously throughout the 30 day experiments. After 30 days, the 30 cm x 2.5 cm columns were separated into 7.5 cm depth increments. For sands containing approximately 10% or less calcite, there was a trend towards decreasing calcite content in the upper 7.5 cm in response to acidification. This trend was not apparent for highly calcareous sands (35% or 70% calcite). Increased EC and Ca content and decreased pH of percolate were apparent for all sands except that containing 70% calcite. These studies indicate that calcium carbonate is breaking down and leaching through the profile in
response to acidification. The most highly calcareous sand (70% calcite) was affected the least indicating that the large buffering capacity may be delaying the effects of acidification. The next experiment planned will attempt to determine if calcite breakdown and transport affect physical properties (hydraulic conductivity, porosity) of the root zone.
Impacts
(N/A)
Publications
- No publications reported this period
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