Progress 02/15/07 to 02/14/12
Outputs
OUTPUTS: This report describes and summarizes activities for the period 2007-2009. I retired as project leader in January 2010, so this project will not terminate as projected but will continue through reassignment within the Unit to a new Cropping Systems Agronomist and an Environmental Soil Scientist. This project had two major objectives: 1) develop cropping, tillage, and management practices that conserve natural resources and enhance the profitability and environmental sustainability of regionally-produced crops; and 2) identify specific sources of bacteria in Buck Creek (a freshwater stream) that placed it on the 303 (d) list of impaired water bodies and subsequently develop a watershed protection plan to mitigate the impairment. A critical natural resource in the semi-arid Rolling Plains is water. Conservation tillage systems were being developed to capture and store limited rainfall for cotton and wheat. A subsurface drip irrigation (SDI) system was developed at Chillicothe, TX to quantify and manage crop water use. SDI studies involved wheat, cotton, sesame, sorghum, forages, and canola. Emphasis was placed on conservation tillage systems with cotton that included four tillage systems and five irrigation treatments. A cropping systems study was also initiated that included cotton, wheat, and sesame rotations and two irrigation treatments. Both of these studies are ongoing. Conservation tillage systems under dryland conditions utilizing wheat as a dual-purpose crop (forage and grain) are currently in progress. Soil mitigation treatments using an AerWay soil conditioner that leaves residue on the soil surface is being compared with no-till conservation systems. Runoff and nutrient movement into the soil profile and off the soil surface from the various treatments are being monitored. The Buck Creek project designed to monitor bacterial loading in and agricultural and rangeland watershed is nearing completion with occasional monitoring of bacteria and nitrates. Water samples were taken on a regular basis and analyzed for E. coli. Bacteria Source Tracking was implemented to identify sources on E. coli that contributed to its listing on the 303 (d) list of impaired water bodies for bacteria in the state of Texas. Fecal material from known mammal and avian sources were collected over several years. E. coli, specific to the animal species, was isolated and purified for DNA analysis by a cooperative AgriLife Research unit and placed in a DNA library specific to the watershed. PARTICIPANTS: State Support Committee of Cotton Incorporated, Texas State Soil and Water Conservation Board, Monsanto, Wheat Producers Board, Texas Water Resources Institute, Texas AgriLife Research at El Paso and Lubbock, Texas AgriLife Extension Service, County Agents, Smith-Walker Ranches, Sesaco, United Sorghum Checkoff Program, Texas AgriLife wheat and cotton breeders, DuPont, EPA, TCEQ, regional farmers and ranchers, Kansas State University, Fluid Fertilizer Foundation, Texas State Cropping Systems Initiative, Texas Foundation Seed, Soil and Water Conservation Districts, Red River Authority. TARGET AUDIENCES: Scientific community, Industry personnel and managers, farmers, ranchers, commodity checkoff boards PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: Project leader retired during this period and was replaced with a new agronomist. The new scientist is developing a new project specific to the skills, training, and interest of the scientist while incorporating and utilizing current research and facilities that were initiated and developed by the former Project Leader.
Impacts
Promoted no-till and conservation tillage practices while maintaining productivity in grain-only and dual-use wheat production and enhancing economic returns estimated at $5.6 million annually. Ongoing research from SDI studies indicates recognizing high nitrate ground water can save substantial costs on N fertilizer for irrigated producers. Promoted water conservation and better nutrient management via efficient subsurface drip irrigation while increasing yield over conventional irrigation systems...SDI acreage and economic returns expanding. Our bacterial source tracking research was critical in the potential delisting of Buck Creek as an impaired water body for bacteria, saving farmers and ranchers substantial costs needed to exclude cattle from the fresh water stream. Impacts from this research are ongoing as studies continue under different project leadership.
Publications
- Sij, J.W., B.L.S. Olson, J.P. Ott, and D.P Malinowski. 2007. Tolerance of three wheatgrass cultivars to sulfosulfuron herbicide. Texas J. Agric. Nat. Res. Vol 20, p 32-41.
- Sij, J.W., W.E. Pinchak, D.P. Malinowski, D.L. Robinson, S.J. Bevers, T.A. Baughman, and R.J. Gill. 2007. Yield and economic responses to phosphorous fertilizer placement in dual-use and grain-only wheat production systems. Agron. J. 99:773-778.
- Olson, B.L.S., J.W. Sij, and T.A. Baughman. 2007. Guar tolerance to postemergence herbicides. Weed Technology 21:523-525.
- Sij, J.W., B.L.S. Olson, J.P. Ott, and T.A. Baughman. 2007. Stalk persistence of interseeded wheat and rye cover crops treated at two growth stages and six rates of glyphosate. Texas J. Agric. Nat. Res. [19:93-101 (2006)].
- Sij, J.W., D.G. Bordovsky, D.L. Jones, and J.E. Slosser. 2010. Utilizing Subsurface Drip, Conservation Tillage, and Deficit Irrigation in Cotton Production Systems. Scholarly Research Exchange. Volume 2010 (2010), Article ID 725381.
- Sij, J., C. Morgan, M. Belew, D. Jones, and K. Wagner. 2008. Seymour Aquifer Water Quality Improvement Project. Final Report. TR-322. TWRI (ed). 67 pg. EPA, TSSWCB CWA Section 319(h). Agreement No. 1-18-TAMU-2006. TSSWCB Agreement No. 04-9A
- Sij, J., P. Dyer, and M. Belew. 2008. Maximizing forage/beef in wheat/stocker production systems. 14-16. Fluid Journal. Winter 2008.
- Gregory, L., P. Dyer, K. Wagner, and J. Sij. 2008. Bacterial Monitoring for the Buck Creek Watershed. Texas Water Resources Institute and Texas AgriLife Research, Final Report. 70 pg. TSSWCB and EPA (ed); June 24, 2008, EPA, TSSWCB CWA Section 319(h). TSSWCB. Project 03-07.
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Progress 01/01/09 to 12/31/09
Outputs
OUTPUTS: Objectives of this project include, but not limited to, 1) developing cropping, tillage, and management practices that conserve natural resources and enhance the profitability and environmental sustainability of regionally-produced crops; and 2) Identifying specific sources of bacteria in Buck Creek and develop management alternatives and a watershed protection plan that restore and maintain the water body in compliance with existing water quality standards. Subsurface drip irrigation (SDI) and a no-till conservation-till system were evaluated over 3 yr on cotton production and fiber quality in north Texas. SDI significantly increased cotton yields over that from furrow irrigation in 2 of 3 yr. When averaged over 3 yr, the cover crop treatments on 1- and 2-m drip line spacing and a 100 percent ET replacement yielded numerically more than the companion treatments without a cover crop. Across years, the SDI treatments significantly increased loan values by an average of $0.045/kg over furrow-irrigated cotton. During the course of these investigations, it was determined that many wells in the region exceed 20 ppm nitrate. Although, this level exceeds the national drinking water standard of 10 ppm, this high nitrate water can be considered a significant source of additional "free" N in irrigated agriculture. The seasonal application of high N irrigation water can supply one half to 100 percent of the N requirements of a cotton crop, thus providing significant savings in fertilizer N. Initial runoff from soil mitigation (using an AerWay soil conditioner) and simulated rainfall studies in dual-use wheat production conducted in December 2008 indicated that runoff volume and total solids (erosion) in runoff water were significantly higher from conventionally-tilled plots. Compared to no-till plots, runoff volume was nearly 1/3 higher and total solid loss was 2/3 higher from conventional-tilled plots. Total phosphorus and ammonium losses were also greatest from conventional-tilled plots. Studies with minor crops, canola and sesame, have been initiated in order to broaden agricultural diversity in the region and better manage natural resources. Without an economical weed control program, sesame production will not expand in the Rolling Plains. To that end, the current project is aiding an effort for herbicide labeling in sesame. The Bacterial Source Tracking portion of the Watershed Protection Plan phase of Buck Creek has been completed. Contribution to the bacterial impairment included: wildlife- 55 percent; domestic animals/livestock- 16.2 percent; human- 11 percent; unidentified- 16 percent (animals not in source library). Colony counts are generally within acceptable range with the exception of occasional rainfall events that elevate colony counts. Stakeholder/landowner involvement has improved through continued Watershed Coordination meetings that have been held 2-3 times/year with 18-30 stakeholders/landowners in attendance. A quarterly newsletter has become imperative to keep absentee stakeholders/landowners informed of current monitoring efforts, Best Management Practices, and current work on the Watershed Protection Plan. PARTICIPANTS: 1. Participants/individuals who worked on the project. Dr. John W. Sij: Project leader--develop and implement scientific studies, submit quarterly and final reports to cooperating and supporting agencies and commodity groups, develop commodity research proposals, present data at scientific meetings through oral and poster presentations, generate competitive grant proposals, develop journal articles, and manage personnel, equipment, and budgets. Dr. Paul Delaune: Co-PI-develop and implement research studies, analyze field data, supervise technical personnel, present data and technical information at professional meetings, field days, and workshops, and cooperatively develop research proposals and journal articles. Mark Belew: Research associate--implement field studies as directed, collect and analyze data, generate figures and graphs for professional presentations, supervise technical assistants and part-time help, maintain and operate research equipment, manage field research plots. Phyllis Dyer: Agricultural Research Technician II-Collect and analyze field and laboratory data, develop and present research results to clientele, maintain laboratory and laboratory equipment, draft quarterly reports to supporting agencies, supervise part-time help. David Jones: Research Technician-manage subsurface drip irrigated research plots, develop and maintain field management and data records, maintain and operate the irrigation system, supervise technicians and part-time held, provide technical support to the Research Associate and Project Leader. Jonathan Cunningham: Agricultural Research Technician I-operate field equipment, manage field plots, collect and record field data, provide equipment maintenance, support the Research Associate and Project Leaders in assigned and shared duties. Partner Organizations. Texas Water Resources Institute, Cotton Incorporated, Texas Wheat Producers Board, Sesaco Inc., Ag Research Associates, Texas Tech University, Texas AgriLIFE Extension Service, Texas Foundation Seed Service. Collaborators and contracts. Texas State Soil and Water Conservation Board, Red River Authority, Soil and Water Conservation Districts, Texas AgriLife Research-El Paso, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, USEPA, USDA, Texas Parks and Wildlife, County Extension Agents and Extension Specialists, individual farmers and ranchers, Texas Foundation Seed Service, Texas AgriLife Research plant breeders. Training or professional development. Workshops and field days for producers and ranchers, post-doctoral fellow, workshop and offsite training for project technician, active participant in professional meetings, TARGET AUDIENCES: Producers and ranchers, soil and water conservation district personnel, cotton and wheat commodity groups, professionals sharing similar interests, extension personnel, industry cooperators. Efforts. Area workshops and stakeholder meetings, professional meetings, formal quarterly and final reporting to supporting agencies and commodity groups, commodity-based annual meetings. PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: Nothing significant to report during this reporting period.
Impacts
This project continues to provide science-based data that are essential in developing Best Management Practices that conserve soil and ground water resources, increase water-use efficiency, and improve the economics of crop production systems within a farming unit. The Irrigation Field Day in 2009 brought producers and industry personnel together and some expansion in SDI acreage is anticipated. Canola and sesame plantings are also expected to increase in 2010, due in part to AgriLife's positive research efforts on these two crops, with one producer planting 5000 ac of Canola in 2009. Sesame plantings should also increase, particularly if Texas can acquire a pre-emergence herbicide label for sesame. Findings of the continuing water sampling and testing for bacteria have resulted in a more complete protection plan based on sound data of acceptable number and quality. Some basic management practices are expected to lower the E. coli numbers to an acceptable level, which should result in the declassification and removal of Buck Creek from the 303d list of bacterially impaired waters in Texas.
Publications
- Sij, J.W., D.G. Bordovsky, D.L. Jones, and J.E. Slosser. 2009. Utilizing Subsurface Drip, Conservation Tillage, and Deficit Irrigation in Cotton Production Systems. Scholarly Research Review.
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Progress 01/01/08 to 12/31/08
Outputs
OUTPUTS: In the semiarid Rolling Plains region of north Texas, crop and animal production are limited by the availability and reliability of water, either supplied through rainfall or irrigation. One project goal is to identify cropping and tillage systems that capture and conserve limited rainfall and utilize groundwater resources in a prudent and sustainable manner while incorporating conservation tillage practices that further enhance irrigation efficiencies. A wheat study was initiated in 2008 to study the effects of conservation tillage on dual-use wheat production. An AerWay soil conditioner was used to evaluate various degrees of tillage or soil disturbance on water infiltration rates, runoff, and nutrient movement through the soil profile. Rainfall simulators are being employed. Forage and grain yields will also be determined. Tillage systems and irrigation strategies for subsurface drip irrigated (SDI) cotton production are currently being studied at Chillicothe, TX. Four tillage systems and five irrigation regimes are included in the study. Deficit irrigation was employed based on evaporation transpiration (ET) replacement. Bolls ft-1 increased up to 66% ET replacement and remained constant at 100% and 133% ET replacement. Irrigation levels at 100% and above delayed boll opening, due to prolonged vegetative development and late boll set. Plant heights increased in a linear fashion with increased amounts of irrrigation. Lint yields increased up to 66% ET replacement, while increased irrigation above 66% ET replacement did not significantly (P less than 0.05) increase yield. There were no significant differences among tillage systems under any ET treatment. Under our environmental conditions in 2008, estimated net economic returns favored a no-till, flat-planted system. A cropping systems study was also initiated in 2008 under SDI. Cotton, winter wheat, canola and sesame are being utilized in multiple cropping systems. The objective is to maximize economic returns from SDI through intensive rotation of summer and winter crops. For the summer crops in 2008, net returns for cotton exceeded $500/ac and $400/ac for sesame. A water quality project is in its second study phase. A fresh water stream in an agricultural watershed is being evaluated for bacterial (E. coli) impairment. Bacterial source tracking will identify sources of impairment. Currently, E coli are being isolated from fecal material from known animal sources in the watershed and cultures purified for DNA extraction and cataloging. Water samples are also being taken, and E coli isolates are being purified for DNA analysis at the AgriLife Research Center in El Paso, TX. DNA ccomparisons will be made to identify the sources of bacterial contamination in the fresh water stream. PARTICIPANTS: Participants/individuals who worked on the project. Dr. John W. Sij: Project leader--develop and implement scientific studies, submit quarterly and final reports to cooperating and supporting agencies and commodity groups, develop commodity research proposals, present data at scientific meetings through oral and poster presentations, generate competitive grant proposals, develop journal articles, and manage personnel, equipment, and budgets. Dr. Paul Delaune: Co-PI-develop and implement research studies, analyze field data, supervise technical personnel, present data and technical information at professional meetings, field days, and workshops, and cooperatively develop research proposals and journal articles. Mark Belew: Research associate--implement field studies as directed, collect and analyze data, generate figures and graphs for professional presentations, supervise technical assistants and part-time help, maintain and operate research equipment, manage field research plots. Phyllis Dyer: Agricultural Research Technician II-Collect and analyze field and laboratory data, develop and present research results to clientele, maintain laboratory and laboratory equipment, draft quarterly reports to supporting agencies, supervise part-time help. David Jones: Research Technician-manage subsurface drip irrigated research plots, develop and maintain field management and data records, maintain and operate the irrigation system, supervise technicians and part-time held, provide technical support to the Research Associate and Project Leader. Jonathan Cunningham: Agricultural Research Technician I--operate field equipment, manage field plots, collect and record field data, provide equipment maintenance, support the Research Associate and Project Leaders in assigned and shared duties. Partner Organizations. Texas Water Resources Institute, Cotton Incorporated, Texas Wheat Prorducers Board, Sesaco Inc., Ag Research Associates, Texas Tech University, Texas AgriLIFE Extension Service, Texas Foundation Seed Service. Collaborators and contracts. Texas State Soil and Water Conservation Board, Red River Authority, Soil and Water Conservation Districts, Texas AgriLife Research-El Paso, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, USEPA, USDA, Texas Parks and Wildlife, County Extension Agents and Extension Specialists, individual farmers and ranchers, Texas Foundation Seed Service, Texas AgriLife Research plant breeders. Training or professional development. Workshops and field days for producers and ranchers, post-doctoral fellow, workshop and offsite training for project technician, active participant in professional meetings TARGET AUDIENCES: Producers and ranchers, soil and water conservation district personnel, cotton and wheat commodity groups, professionals sharing similar interests, extension personnel. Efforts. Area workshops and stakeholder meetings, professional meetings, formal quarterly and final reporting to supporting agencies and commodity groups, commodity-based annual meetings. PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: Nothing significant to report during this reporting period.
Impacts
This project will provide science-based data that are essential in developing Best Management Practices that conserve soil and ground water resources, increase water-use efficiency, and improve the economics of crop production systems within a farming unit. The water quality study will identify the sources and degree of the bacterial impairment and provide data to develop a stakeholder-driven watershed protection plan that enables the water body in this largely agricultural watershed to meet existing water quality standards. Depending on the outcome of the study, data may be used to delist the stream from the 303 (d) list of impaired water bodies or change the designated use of the fresh water stream.
Publications
- Sij, J.W., B.L.S. Olson, J.P. Ott, and D.P Malinowski. 2007. Tolerance of three wheatgrass cultivars to sulfosulfuron herbicide. Texas Journal Agriculture and Natural Resources. Vol 20, p 32-41.
- Sij, J., P. Dyer, and M. Belew. 2008. Maximizing forage/beef in wheat/stocker production systems. Pg 14-16. Fluid Journal. Winter 2008.
- Sij, J.W. 2008. Buck Creek Monitoring Project, Final Report. TSSWCB and EPA (ed); June 24, 2008, EPA, TSSWCB CWA Section 319(h). TSSWCB Project 03-07. 70 pg.
- Sij, J., C. Morgan, M. Belew, D. Jones, and K. Wagner. 2008. Seymour Aquifer Water Quality Improvement Project. Final Report. TR-322. TWRI (ed). 67 pg. EPA, TSSWCB CWA Section 319(h). Agreement No. 1-18-TAMU-2006. TSSWCB Agreement No. 04-9A.
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Progress 01/01/07 to 12/31/07
Outputs
OUTPUTS: Project goals include cropping systems and production practices that enhance crop yields by capturing and conserving limited rainfall in a semiarid environment utilizing conservation tillage, improved utilization of groundwater resources through subsurface drip irrigation technology, and bacterial source tracking in an impaired fresh water stream in an agricultural watershed. A 4-yr dryland cropping systems study was concluded in 2007. Over the 4-yr period, cotton with inter-seeded rye and cotton-wheat-fallow systems yielded significantly more than cotton-wheat double crop. Double crop dryland cotton-wheat in the Rolling Plains has disadvantages due to later planting dates for both cotton and wheat, and inherently affects crop yields. No-till cotton with inter-seeded rye (or wheat) appears to be equal to or better than conventional cotton, may be more economical, and should protect seedling cotton from wind and blowing sand. A conservation tillage system and water management
study under subsurface drip irrigation was funded by the State Support Committee of Cotton Incorporated. The objective is to develop conservation tillage and water management strategies that enhance stand establishment, water-use efficiency, and yield of SDI-irrigated cotton. Terminated wheat cover crops will be utilized that include a series of deficit irrigation regimes. Phase II of the Buck Creek monitoring project was initiated and will focus on bacteria source tracking to identify sources of the creek's impairment. Fecal samples from known animals are being collected. Purified E. coli cultures will be sent to the El Paso Research Center for DNA analysis. Water monitoring continues as well as recording stream flow and water quality data, including nitrate levels.
PARTICIPANTS: Dr. John W. Sij: Project leader--develop and implement scientific studies, develop reports as appropriate, present data at scientific meetings, grant procurement, develop journal articles, and manage personnel, equipment, and budgets. Mark Belew: Research associate-- implement field studies as directed, collect and analyze data, generate figures and graphs for professional presentations, supervise technical assistants and part-time help, maintain and operate research equipment. Phyllis Dyer: Agricultural Research Technician II--Collect and analyze field and laboratory data, develop and present research results to clientele, maintain laboratory and laboratory equipment, draft quarterly reports to supporting agencies, supervise part-time help. David Jones: Research Technician--manage subsurface drip irrigated research plots, develop and maintain field management and data records, maintain and operate the irrigation system, provide technical support to the Research
Associate and Project Leader. Cody Pope: Agricultural Research Technician I--operate field equipment, manage field plots, collect and record field data, provide equipment maintenance, support the research associate and project leader in assigned duties. Partner Organizations: Texas Water Resources Institute, Cotton Incorporated, Texas Wheat Producers Board, Fluid Fertilizer, Georgia Pacific, Texas Tech University, Texas AgriLife Extension Service. Collaborators and contracts. Texas State Soil and Water Conservation Board, Red River Authority, Soil and Water Conservation Districts, Texas AgriLife Research-El Paso, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, USEPA, USDA, Texas Parks and Wildlife, County Extension Agents, Individual Farmers and Ranchers. Training or professional development. Workshops and field days for producers and ranchers, post-doctoral fellow, workshop and offsite training for project technician.
TARGET AUDIENCES: Producers and ranchers, soil and water conservation district personnel, cotton and wheat commodity groups, professionals sharing similar interests, extension personnel. Efforts: Area workshops and stakeholder meetings, professional meetings, formal quarterly and final reporting to supporting agencies and commodity groups, commodity-based annual meetings.
Impacts
Research will provide science-based data that are essential in developing Best Management Practices that conserve ground water, increase water-use efficiency, and improve the economics of crop production within a farming unit. The Buck Creek study will identify the sources and degree of the bacterial impairment and provide the data to develop a stakeholder-driven watershed protection plan that enables the water body in this largely agricultural watershed to meet existing water quality standards.
Publications
- Sij, J.W., B.L.S. Olson, J.P. Ott, and T.A. Baughman. 2007. "Stalk persistence on interseeded wheat and rye cover crops treated at two growth stages and six rates of glyphosate". Texas Journal Agriculture and Natural Resources [19:93-101 (2006)].
- Sij, J.W., W.E. Pinchak, S. J. Bevers, R.J. Gill, D.P. Malinowski, T.A. Baughman, and D.L. Robinson. 2007. Yield and Economic Response to Phosphorous Fertilizer Applied to Dual-use Wheat. Agron. J. 99:773-778.
- Olson, B.L.S., J.W. Sij, and T.A. Baughman. 2007. Guar Tolerance to Postemergence Herbicides. Weed Technology 21:523-525.
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Progress 01/01/06 to 12/31/06
Outputs
The project develops production practices and cropping systems that enhance crop yields by capturing and conserving limited rainfall in a semiarid environment utilizing conservation tillage. A dryland cropping systems study using cotton and wheat rotations was initiated to enhance rainfall capture and storage that incorporates a fallow period to store normal annual rainfall. The goal is to increase and stabilize cotton yields during periods of drought. Unfortunately, severe drought during 2005-2006 resulted in loss of stands for both wheat and cotton. The study will be repeated in 2007. A slow-release nitrogen fertilizer study was initiated in 2006 with the goal of producing earlier forage and increased yields while using less N than with traditional fertility practices. A 13-acre subsurface drip irrigation (SDI) system was installed in 2006. The system is comprised of 72 individually-controlled plots to allow precise control of water application and nutrients. Cotton
will be the primary field crop studied. Two additional SDI phases will be completed during the winter of 2007 that will allow expansion of research, demonstration, and education programs. Phase I of a bacterial monitoring water quality project in the Buck Creek watershed has been completed. Impairment was confirmed. Phase II has been initiated to identify the sources of E. coli and develop a watershed protection plan through a stakeholder driven process. The current project is scheduled for revision.
Impacts
Research will provide the knowledge base to develop Best Management Practices that conserve ground water, increase water-use efficiency, and improve the economics of crop production within a farming unit. The project will also identify the sources of the bacterial impairment in the Buck Creek watershed and develop a watershed protection plan that enables the water body to meet existing water quality standards.
Publications
- Pinchak, W.E., Min, B.R., Malinowski, D.P., Sij, J.W., Gill, R.J., Puchala, R., and Anderson, R.A. 2005. Re-evaluation of the frothy bloat complex in cattle grazing winter wheat in the Southern Plains: Evolution of a new integrated research paradigm. In Proc. 2005 Conference on Gastrointestinal Function, April 11-13, Chicago, IL.
- Sij, J., Pinchak, W., Ott, J., Min, B, Malinowski, D. and . Robinson, D. 2006. Returns mixed on wheat pasture response to N and maintenance P in wheat/stocker systems. Fluid Journal. 14(3):8-10.
- Sij, J., Lemon, K, Ott, J., Bordovsky, D. and Baughman, T. 2006. Dryland cropping systems to increase and stabilize cotton yields during periods of drought. Beltwide Cotton Conference Proc. Beltwide Cotton Conf. Jan 3-6. San Antonio, TX.
- Sij, J.. Lemon, K., Pinchak, W. and Min, B. 2006. Nitrogen Management in No-till and Conventional-till Dual-Purpose Wheat/Stocker Production Systems. Proc. Fluid Fertilizer Forum. 13-14 Feb. Scottsdale, AZ.
- Sij, J.W., Pinchak, W.E., Bevers, S.J., Bevers, S., Malinowski, D.P., Gill, R.J., Baughman, T.A., and Robinson, D.L. 2006. Benefits of Fertilization to Beef production from Forage Wheat. Proc. Great Plains Soil Fertility Conference. March 6-8. Denver, CO.
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Progress 01/01/05 to 12/31/05
Outputs
Project goals focus on natural resources management. Research efforts continue on (1) cropping systems and production practices that capture and conserve rainfall and reduce non-point source pollution runoff, (2) nitrogen management in dual-use wheat systems. (3) maximizing water-use efficiencies through subsurface drip irrigation and cover crops, and (4) bacterial monitoring in Buck Creek, an impaired water body within an agricultural watershed. Six cropping systems involving cotton and wheat were studied at the Chillicothe Research Station. Two-year results show that double cropping was the least successful due in part to poor cotton stand establishment. Plots with cover crops showed higher end of season soil moisture in the top 2 feet of soil. In 2005 there did not appear to be any advantage of strip-till over no-till in plots with cover crops. In dual-use wheat research, forage production had a near linear response to pre-plant N application and top-dressing 45 lb
N/ac resulted in signficant grain yield increases. In 2004 conventional-tillage outyielded no-till, but not in 2005. Top-dressing N resulted in maximum grain yield in all plots regardless of the amount of pre-plant N. Subsurface drip irrigation will be installed at Chillicothe to conduct research and demonstrate this new irrigation technology. Seventy-two, individually-controlled, 0.2-ac plots will be available for research. Phase I of the Buck Creek bacterial monitoring project will be followed by Phase II during which bacterial source tracking will be initiated to identify the sources that contribute to the impairment in Buck Creek.
Impacts
The project's goal is to manage the region's natural resources through Best Management Practices that include conservation tillage systems, improved nitrogen fertility management in dual-use wheat/stocker operations and efficient use of ground water resources through sub-surface drip irrigation. Meeting this goal will positively impact the region's soil and water resources and enhance the economics of production while improving the quality of life for rural families and communities.
Publications
- Pinchak, W.E., Min, B.R., Fulford, J.D., Malinowski, D.P., Sij, J.W., Gill, R.J., Puchala, R., and Anderson, R.A. 2005. Re-evaluation of the frothy bloat complex in cattle grazing winter wheat in the Southern Plains: Evolution of a new integration research paradigm. Proceedings Wheat & Stocker Cattle Field Day. April 7, 2005. Vernon, TX.
- Pinchak, W.E., Min, B.R., Malinowski, D.P., and Sij, J.W. 2005. Grain yield and quality responses to grazing intensity and pull-off date in north Texas. Proceedings Wheat & Stocker Cattle Field Day. April 7, 2005. Vernon, TX.
- Robinson, D.L., Pinchak, W.E., Sij, J.W., Bevers, S.J., Gill, R.J., Malinowski, D.P. and Baughman, T.A. 2005. Phosphorous fertilizer impacts forage, beef, and grain production from wheat. Proceedings Wheat & Stocker Cattle Field Day. April 7, 2005. Vernon, TX.
- Sij, J.W., Ott, J.P., Pinchak, W.E., and Min, B.R. 2005. Nitrogen management in no-till and conventional-till dual-purpose wheat/stocker production systems. Proceedings Wheat & Stocker Cattle Field Day. April 7, 2005. Vernon, TX.
- Sij, J.W., Ott, J.P., Baughman, T.A., and Bordovsky, D.G. . 2005. A no-till dryland cropping system to increase and stabilize yields during periods of drought. Proceedings Wheat & Stocker Cattle Field Day. April 7, 2005. Vernon, TX.
- Sij, J.W., Ott, J.P., Baughman, T.A., and Olson, B.L.S. 2005. Tillage systems in dual-use and grain-only systems in the Rolling Plains. Proceedings Wheat & Stocker Cattle Field Day. April 7, 2005. Vernon, TX.
- Sij, J.W., Ott, J.P., Olson, B.L.S., and Baughman, T.A. 2005. Growth and yield response to simulated hail damage in guar. Agron. J. 97:1636-1639.
- Sij, J., Ott, J.P., Olson, B.L.S., Baughman, T.A. and Bordovsky, D.G. 2005. Irrigated cropping systems to conserve natural resources and enhance economic returns in the Texas Rolling Plains. Proceedings Beltwide Cotton Conference. 4-7 January. New Orleans.
- Sij, J.W., Pinchak, W.E., Ott, J.P., Min, B.R., and Robinson, D. L. 2005. Wheat pasture response to maintenance phosphorous and nitrogen fertilizer in dual-use, wheat/stocker systems on the Texas Rolling Plains. Proceedings 2005 Fluid Forum Program. Scottsdale, AZ.
- Robinson, D.L., Sij, J.W., Pinchak,W.E., Malinowski, D.P., Min, B.R., and Gill, R.J. 2005. Grazing and grain responses to residual and maintenance applications of phosphorous on winter wheat. Proceedings Wheat & Stocker Cattle Field Day. April 7, 2005. Vernon, TX.
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Progress 01/01/04 to 12/31/04
Outputs
Objectives of this project include developing production practices and cropping systems that capture and conserve rainfall in a semiarid environment, and maximizing irrigation water efficiencies through utilization of subsurface drip irrigation and cover crops. A conservation tillage dry land cropping systems study was initiated to enhance rainfall capture and retention. The system includes cotton and wheat and utilizing a fallow period to store soil moisture for subsequent cotton production. Wheat and cotton yields were at or above the long-term production averages under conventional tillage. A phosphorous fertilizer study in a dual-use wheat/stocker production system revealed that a maintenance application of P did not affect forage, beef, or grain yields when compared with plots containing residual P. Hence, the economics of production may be enhanced since annual applications of P may not be warranted. A nitrogen fertility management study in dual-use wheat
production was initiated in 2003-04. Poor early season growing conditions affected forage production. No significant differences in forage production were observed during the grazing period. N fertilization over 60 lb/ac did not significantly increase forage yields by 22 April (heading date). Grain yields increased with increasing N rates, and top-dressed N further increased grain yields on average about 5.7 bu/ac, except at the highest pre-plant N rate of 120 lb N/ac. Even though yields were increased nearly 6 bu/ac, a rough economic analysis showed that returns were only marginally profitable. Across all treatments, the conventional tillage treatment out-yielded no-till about 10% or 3.5 bu/ac, possibly due to less soil compaction under the conventional-till system.
Impacts
The goal of this research project is to identify cropping systems and management practices that capture and conserve the limited precipitation in semiarid Rolling Plains to enhance the economics of dryland crop production and to make more efficient use of ground water resources through subsurface drip irrigation and conservation tillage.
Publications
- Robinson, D.L., Sij, J.W, Pinchak, W.E., Gill, R.J., Bevers, S.J., Malinowski, D.P., and Baughman, T.A. 2004. Phosphorus fertilizer effects on forage, beef and grain production from winter wheat. p. 88-93. In L.S. Murphy (ed.) 2004 Fluid Fert. Fnd. Proc. Vol. 21. Fluid Fert. Foundation. Manhattan, KS
- Sij, J., Ott, J., Olson, B., Bordovsky, D., and Baughman, T. 2004. Using interseeded rye to enhance rainfall capture in dryland cotton production. Beltwide Cotton Conference Proceedings. January 5-9. San Antonio, TX.
- Robinson, D.L., Sij, J.W., Pinchak, W.E., Gill, R.J., Bevers, S.J., Malinowski, D.P., and Baughman, T.A. 2004. Phosphorus fertilizer effects on forage, beef and grain production from winter wheat. p. 110-116. In A.J. Schlegel (ed.) Great Plains Soil Fertility Conference Proceedings, Vol 10. Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS.
- Robinson, D., Sij, J., Pinchak, W., Gill, R., Malinowski, D., Baughman, T., and Bevers, S. 2004. Phosphorus Fertilizer Bumps Forage and Beef Production. Fluid Journal. 12 (2) Issue #45 p.8-10
- Robinson, D.L., Pinchak, W.E., Sij, J.W., Bevers, S.J., Gill, R.J., Malinowski, D.P., and Baughman, T.A. 2004. Phosphorus fertilizer impacts forage, beef, and grain production from wheat. Better Crops with Plant Food. 88(3): pp 8-11. Potash and Phosphate Institute.
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Progress 01/01/03 to 12/31/03
Outputs
Objectives of this project include developing production practices and cropping systems that capture and conserve rainfall in a semiarid environment, and maximizing irrigation water efficiencies through utilization of subsurface drip irrigation and cover crops. A second year of a 3-year cropping systems study at the Chillicothe research station included five tillage treatments: conventional, reduced-till, reduced-till with dikes, strip-till with interseeded rye, and no-till with interseeded rye. Rye was chemically terminated at 50% heading to capture rainfall and reduce soil erosion. Soil moisture and rainfall runoff were determined over the course of the growing season. The conventional-till system resulted in the greatest amount of runoff and sediment displacement in 2 of 3 years. Strip-till with interseeded rye resulted in the least amount of runoff and sediment displacement. This system matched the water retention and reduction in sediment displacement capability
of the diked system. Lint yields were not significantly affected by tillage system in 2 of 3 yrs or when averaged over 3 yrs. Strip-till with rye and no-till with rye systems require fewer field operations than conventional or diked systems and may result in greater economic returns while providing conservation of soil resources. Protecting erodible soils in the Rolling Plains is critical for sustained dual-use wheat production systems. The adoption of conservation agriculture in dual-use systems is lacking due to concerns over soil compaction from cattle hoof traffic and subsequent effect on grain yield. Two year results show that in an ungrazed, grain-only system, no-till, reduced-till, and conventional-till produced similar grain yields. However, in the graze plus grain system, no-till yielded significantly less grain than the other two systems both years, although forage production prior to cattle placement was similar among all three tillage systems. Soil penetrometer readings
indicated generally higher soil compaction in the surface 6 inches in the no-till plots compared with the other tillage systems from January to the March 1 pull-off date. Even though the soil relaxed following pull-off, root growth could have been restricted during the grazing period and failed to recover, thereby affecting grain production.
Impacts
This research project is focused on identifying cropping systems that capture and conserve sparse rainfall in a semiarid environment to enhance the economics of dryland crop production and crop production in areas with limited irrigation resources.
Publications
- Robinson, D. B., Pinchak, B., Sij, J., Gill, R., Baughman, T., and Bevers, S. 2003. Grazing and grain responses to phosphorous and phosphorous placement applied to wheat pasture in Texas. P. 122-128. In L. S. Murphy (ed.) 2003 Fluid Fert. Found. Proc. Vol. 20. Fluid Fert. Found., Manhattan, KS.
- Rosenow, D. T., Dahlberg, J. A., Peterson, G. C., Erpelding, J. E., Sij, J. W., Clark, L. E., Hamburger, A. J., Madera-Torress, R., and Woodfin, C. A.Release of 49 Converted Sorghum Germplasm Lines from the Sorghum Conversion Program. 2003. International Sorghum and Millets Newsletter.
- Sij, J. W., Ott, J. P., Baughman, T., and Olson, B. L. S. 2003. No-till and reduced-till wheat--will it work in the Rolling Plains. In Rolling Plains 2002 Research & Extension Reports. Vernon Center Technical Report #2003-03.
- Baughman, T. A., Keeling, J. W., and Sij, J. W. 2003. Effects of varying row patterns of interseeded wheat and rye on dryland cotton yields and moisture. In Rolling Plains 2002 Research & Extension Reports. Vernon Center Technical Report #2003-06.
- Sij, J., Ott, J., Olson, B., and Baughman, T. 2003. A conservation cropping system to enhance sorghum profitability in rotation with cotton in the Rolling Plains. In Rolling Plains 2002 Research & Extension Reports. Vernon Center Technical Report #2003-06.
- Sij, J. W., Ott, J. P., Baughman, T. A., and Olson, B. L. S. 2003. Simulated hail damage on guar at different stages of growth. In Rolling Plains 2002 Research & Extension Reports. Vernon Center Technical Report #2003-08.
- Sij, J. W., Ott, J. P., Olson, B. L. S., Baughman, T. A., and Bordovsky, D. G. 2003. Dryland Cropping Systems to Enhance Soil Moisture Capture and Water-use Efficiency in Cotton. In Proceedings Beltwide Cotton Conf. 6-10 January 2003. Nashville, TN.
- Baughman, T. A., Keeling, J. W., Reed, J. C., Everitt, J. D., and Sij, J. W. 2003. Effects of Interseeded Small Grains on Dryland Cotton Performance. In Proceedings Beltwide Cotton Conf. 6-10 January 2003. Nashville, TN.
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Progress 01/01/02 to 12/31/02
Outputs
The objectives of the research project are to develop production practices and cropping systems that capture and conserve rainfall in a semiarid environment and maximize irrigation water efficiencies through utilization of subsurface drip irrigation and cover crops. A second year of a 3-year cropping systems study at the Chillicothe research station included five tillage treatments: conventional, reduced-till, reduced-till with dikes, strip-till with interseeded rye, and no-till with interseeded rye. Rye was chemically terminated at 50 percent heading to capture rainfall and reduce soil erosion. Soil moisture and rainfall runoff were determined over the course of the growing season. The no-till with rye, strip-till with rye, and furrow-diked systems contained more soil moisture at the 3-ft depth than conventional and reduced-till systems at the end of the growing season. The strip-till with rye resulted in the least rainfall runoff and sediment displacement and may be
superior to a furrow-diked system. Lint yields were unaffected by tillage systems, which is encouraging as strip-till and no-till systems with rye require fewer field operations than conventional tillage systems. A 26-acre subsurface drip irrigation system at the Munday station was installed and became operational in May. Deficit irrigation studies that include cover crops will be initiated in 2003. A no-till and reduced-till wheat study was conducted under a grazing and non-grazing environment and 3 fertility treatments. Soil compaction and grain yields were determined. There were no significant differences in yield among fertility treatments in either grazed or ungrazed plots. Soil compaction is perceived to be a problem in establishing wheat in a no-till grazing system. However, the first year's penetrometer readings indicate that soil compaction early in the grazing season had disappeared at the 4- to 6- depth by May and was similar to that in the ugrazed system.
Impacts
This research project is focused on identifying cropping systems that capture and conserve sparse rainfall in a semiarid environment to enhance the economics of dryland crop production and crop production in areas with limited irrigation resources.
Publications
- Sij, J. W., Baughman, T. A., Olson, B. L. S., Bordovsky, D. and Ott, J. P. 2002. Dryland cropping systems to enhance soil moisture capture and water-use efficiency in cotton. Proceedings of the Beltwide Cotton Conferences, 2002. Atlanta, GA January 8-12.
- Olson, B. L. S., Baughman, T.A. and Sij, J. W. 2002. Guar tolerance to various postemergence herbicides. Proceedings of the North Central Weed Science Society. St. Louis, MO. December 2-5.
- Malinowski, D. P., Hopkins, A. A., Pinchak, W. E., Sij, J. W. , and Ansley, R. J. 2002. Productivity and survival of defoliated wheatgrasses in the rolling plains of Texas. Agronomy Journal (accepted).
- Sij, J. W., Baughman, T.A., Bevers, S., and Ott, J. P. 2001. Irrigated crop management to enhance economic returns in irrigated wheat production on the Texas Rolling Plains. In Rolling Plains 2001 Research and Extension Agronomy Reports. Vernon Center Technical Report 2002-4.
- Baughman, T. A., Sij, J. W., and Keeling, J. W. 2001. Effects of varying row patterns of interseeded wheat and rye on dryland cotton yields and soil moisture. In Rolling Plains 2001 Research and Extension Agronomy Reports. Vernon Center Technical Report 2002-6.
- Sij, J. W., Baughman, T.A., Olson, B. L.S., and Bordovsky, D. 2001 Dryland cropping systems to enhance soil moisture capture and water-use efficiency in cotton. In Rolling Plains 2001 Research and Extension Agronomy Reports. Vernon Center Technical Report 2002-6.
- Sij, J. W., Ott, J. P., Olson, B. L. S., and Baughman, T.A. 2002. Simulated hail damage on guar at different stages of growth. In Rolling Plains 2001 Research and Extension Agronomy Reports. Vernon Center Technical Report 2002-7.
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Progress 01/01/01 to 12/31/01
Outputs
The goal of the current project is to identify cropping systems and production practices that have positive impacts on the natural resource base of the Texas Rolling Plains under both dryland and irrigated agriculture. A dryland cropping systems study with cotton at the Chillicothe Research Station included five tillage treatments: convention, strip-till with inter-seeded rye as a partial cover crop, reduced-till, reduced-till with dikes , and no-till. Chemically-terminated rye was used to capture rainfall, reduce runoff and soil erosion, and protect seedling cotton from blowing sand. Unfortunately, rainfall events that resulted in runoff only occurred in late May and early September. Soil moisture profiles indicated that all moisture was extracted in the top 3-feet of soil by late July. Compared with conventional tillage, dikes reduced runoff 60% and inter-seeded rye 40%. Summer drought limited lint yields to 160 lbs/ac and there were no significant yield differences
among tillage treatments. An irrigated cropping systems/crop rotation study comprising 16 treatments at the Munday location, showed that the only treatment comparing favorably with continuous cotton was an early wheat/early cotton double crop system. Sorghum was an unacceptable rotational crop with cotton due to poor yield and economic returns. Research on guar continues with emphasis on post-emergent broadleaf weed control. Raptor and 2,4-DB show promise and efforts are in progress to get these herbicides labeled. A subsurface drip irrigation system will be installed at Munday in 2002. Research objectives are to compare plant development, fertility requirements, pest problems, lint quality, yield, and water-use efficiency with conventional, furrow irrigation. Cover crops and minimum tillage will be incorporated to augment conservation of natural resources and rainfall capture.
Impacts
Advance scientific knowledge on potential production systems that conserve and utilize limited moisture in a semi-arid environment. This research also identifies crops and environmentally-sound crop production systems that conserve natural resources and enhance the economics of crop production in the Texas Rolling Plains.
Publications
- Nelson, L.R., Sij, J.W., Lazar, M.D., and McVeigh, K.J.. 2000. Registration of TXR91-SR6EI annual ryegrass germplasm. Crop Sci. 40: 1834-1835.
- Cook, C. G., Sij, J.W. and Scott, A.W. Jr. 2000. Registration of `Dowling' kenaf. Crop Sci. 40:1831.
- Olson, B.L.S., Baughman, T.A. and Sij, J.W. 2001. Grain Sorghum desiccation with sodium chlorate and paraquat in the Texas Rolling Plains. Texas J. Agric. Nat. Resources (accepted).
- Malinowski, D. P., W. E. Pinchak, J. W. Sij, A. A. Hopkins, J. R. Ansley, and T. A. Baughman. 2000. Management of cool-season grasses affects soil temperature and plant survuval during summer drought in the Rolling Plains of Texas. Proc. Amer. For. Grass. Council. 9:225-229, Madison, WI.
- Robinson, D., Pinchak, B., Sij, J., Gill, R., Baughman, T. and Bevers, S. 2000. Phosphorous placement in wheat pasture. Proc. Fluid Fertilizer Foundation. L. Murphy (ed.). Scottsdale, AZ Vol. 17:148.
- Robinson, D., Pinchak, B., Sij, J., Gill, R., Baughman, T. and Bevers, S. 2001. Grain and Grazing responses to phosphorous placement applied to wheat pasture in the Texas Rolling Plains. Proc. Fluid Fertilizer Foundation. L. Murphy (ed.). Manhattan, KS. Vol.18:155-159.
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