Nitrogen losses in saturated soils

Recent rainfalls have brought about an abrupt change to soil conditions in some Ontario fields in just a few short weeks ago.  Localized heavy rainfalls have left some fields with standing water in low-lying areas, while many fields are wet or saturated.  This has raised questions about the potential losses of nitrogen (N) for the […]

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What does 2023’s Weather Tell Us about Anticipated Soil Nitrogen Supply?

A sidedress applicator injecting nitrogen fertilizer in-season in corn.

Summary Background Throughout the growing season, microbes within the soil break down organic nitrogen contained in soil organic matter and release it as plant-available ammonium.  This process is known as nitrogen mineralization. Nitrogen mineralization is favoured by warm soil temperatures with adequate soil moisture and aeration.  Excess moisture can slow mineralization or increase the potential […]

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On-off grazing

cow grazing

On-off grazing is a management technique to minimize damage while grazing wet pastures. It is an alternative to using a sacrifice paddock. Livestock do the least amount of pugging damage to a field when they are actively grazing. It is other activities, such as visiting the water trough or mineral source, lying down, or socializing […]

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Forages/Pastures and Excess Water

standing water drowned plants in a low spot in this pasture

Key Points: Forage and pasture plants are more tolerant of saturated soil conditions in early spring when they are growing slowly. Excess water increases the risk of root and crown diseases. Dig up plants to check for disease after the water has subsided. Flood water may leave behind silt that can smother a crop, raise […]

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Séance d’information sur la gestion durant une sécheresse Vendredi 23 juillet 2021 / de 12 h à 13 h HAC / de 13 h à 14 h HNE

Le ministère de l’Agriculture, de l’Alimentation et des Affaires rurales (MAAARO) a organisé un webinaire pour aider les producteurs du Nord-Ouest de l’Ontario et surmonter les défis reliés aux conditions actuelles de temps sec. Voici certains sujets abordés : Comprendre les programmes de gestion des risques des entreprises et la couverture de l’Assurance-production Gestion des pâturages […]

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Managing Through a Drought Information Session: Friday, July 23, 2021

Friday, July 23, 2021 12 pm CDT/1 pm EDT 1 hour   Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs (OMAFRA) has organized a webinar to assist Northwestern Ontario producers navigate the challenges related to current dry weather conditions.   Topics Include: Understanding Business Risk Management Programs and Production Insurance Coverage Pasture Management Livestock management […]

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