Description
Phosphorus is an essential nutrient for crop growth. Alberta soils are generally deficient or low in phosphorus for optimum crop production (<60 ppm). Successful crop production requires the addition of phosphorus in the form of fertilizer or manure. However, the loss of phosphorus from the landscape can negatively impact water quality. Phosphorus can move with eroded soil or be dissolved in runoff water and carried to nearby surface water bodies. Too much phosphorus in lakes, reservoirs, rivers and streams can speed up aquatic plant and algae growth. This process is called eutrophication, which can lead to oxygen depletion, release of toxins, degraded water quality, fish deaths and odours. When Beneficial Management Practices (BMPs) are used in the management of phosphorus, losses are minimized and crops receive maximum benefit.
Updated
December 1, 2014
Tags
Resources
Title and publication information
Type
Extent
8 pages
Frequency
Once
Publisher / Creator Information
Subject Information
Topic
Resource Dates
Date Created
2014-12-01
Date Added
2016-01-14T19:33:55.710841
Date Modified
2014-12-01
Date Issued
2014-12-01
Audience information
Language
Identifiers
AGDEX number
090-3
Local Identifier
FS 090-3
Usage / Licence
Contact
Contact Name
Agriculture and Forestry