Salt- and sodium-affected soils

This publication is designed to help identify salt- and sodium-affected soils, the salt or sodium sources, how to take soil and water samples, how to reduce the harmful effects of salts and sodium and where to get advice in making reclamation and management decisions for each situation. Salt- and sodium-affected soils, and waters used for irrigation, present a complex combination of problems and possible solutions. It is not the intent here to cover all technical aspects or possible treatment approaches available, but rather to give a simplified overview of what should be considered in diagnosing and managing salt- and sodium-affected soils and irrigation waters. Since summarizing the effects of salt and sodium on soils and plants is difficult without using the appropriate terminology, a glossary is included

Identification and impact of excess soil potassium on crop and livestock nutrition

Several soils have been identified in the Intermountain West which contain excessive amounts of extractable potassium (K). A "normal" ammonium acetate extractable potassium level may be from 200 to 500 parts per million (ppm), while the high potassium soils contain 1,000 to over 7,000 ppm. Initial observation of crops grown on these soils continually showed poor crop yield, general chlorosis and failure to respond to fertilizer additions. While not widely reported in the literature, these soils have been identified at sites in Idaho, Montana, Oregon, Utah and Wyoming. Their discovery suggests a need to further explore the distribution and origin of high extractable K soils. We may also be able to define steps to improve crop and livestock productivity on the sites. This paper presents what we know about excess-K soils and outlines current efforts to determine their origin, chemistry and impacts on crops and livestock

Research Progress Report, No. 26

Barley is the cereal crop best adapted to Alaska’s cool, short-season environment. Not surprisingly, barley is the most important agronomic feed crop in many north-latitude regions which experience similar growing season limitations. Results from longterm yield trials have demonstrated the consistently high yield potential of barley in Alaska. However, the lack of available markets and other economic considerations have limited the extent of its cultivation. An alternative use for barley in Alaska would help provide additional in-state markets. One such use is the production of Alaskagrown barley for use in locally brewed beers. No research trials which investigate the malting quality of Alaska-grown barley are available. This study provides a preliminary assessment of the quality of malt barley produced in Alaska

Identification and impact of excess soil potassium on crop and livestock nutrition

Several soils have been identified in the Intermountain West which contain excessive amounts of extractable potassium (K). A "normal" ammonium acetate extractable potassium level may be from 200 to 500 parts per million (ppm), while the high potassium soils contain 1,000 to over 7,000 ppm. Initial observation of crops grown on these soils continually showed poor crop yield, general chlorosis and failure to respond to fertilizer additions. While not widely reported in the literature, these soils have been identified at sites in Idaho, Montana, Oregon, Utah and Wyoming. Their discovery suggests a need to further explore the distribution and origin of high extractable K soils. We may also be able to define steps to improve crop and livestock productivity on the sites. This paper presents what we know about excess-K soils and outlines current efforts to determine their origin, chemistry and impacts on crops and livestock