Published:
January 1, 1997
Originator:
Chesapeake Bay Program

The efficient use of nutrients in agricultural production systems has important environmental implications. The potential exists, for accelerated nutrient loss, when the amount of essential nutrients exceeds the uptake needs of a crop over time. Nutrient reactions and pathways in the soil-water system are complex and nutrients vary in their potential for transport to surface water and groundwater. Similarily, certain nutrients pose serious water quality threats while others are of little concern. The purpose of this manual is to familiarize the reader with the soil recations and potential loss pathways of the essential plant nutrients and provide a framework for effective nutrient management planning.

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