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Author Archives: Nicole Nunes
Updated Fertigation Book
In California agriculture, there has been a gradual shift from gravity-fed irrigation to pressurized systems including micro-irrigation. Micro-irrigation systems have been implemented in over 60% of irrigated acreage in California and support a more intensively managed production system. The use of pressurized irrigation systems has made significant advancements possible, including more precise delivery of chemicals and nutrients to crops. Chemigation …
Developing Nutrient Budget in Citrus Groves
Research Update: Developing Nutrient Budget and Early Spring Nutrient Prediction Model for Nutrient Management in Citrus Project leaders: Patrick Brown and Douglas Amaral Project location: Fresno, Tulare and Ventura Counties Year of study: 2 of 3 Overview: Leaf analysis with critical value* interpretation is a common practice for determining nutrient applications in citrus. However, this practice can lead to over-application …
Research Update: Examining the Capabilities of Biochar to Adsorb Ammonium
Project Title: Soil Biochar Amendment to Improve Nitrogen and Water Management Project Leader: Suduan Gao, Research Soil Scientist, USDA-ARS Project Location: San Joaquin Valley Year of Study: Two of three Overview: The goal of this study is to determine the overall benefits and best practices associated with the use of biochar, as a soil amendment, in vegetable crop production systems. …
Role of Mineralization in Farming
California growers have taken on an important role in their state’s broader efforts on climate change, including responding to regulatory requirements to improve their nitrogen (N) use efficiency and reduce their environmental impact. To meet these regulations, while maintaining crop yield and quality, growers must consider all potential N sources, including organic amendments and irrigation water. It is essential that …
Approaching Research Data and Trials
The agriculture industry is continuously advancing and investing in new technologies and products, making it important to take a thoughtful and informed approach to planning and decision making. The following is a list of considerations to reference the next time you are looking at research results: 1. Data: If you are considering a new product or practice, do not be …
Demonstrating New Approaches to Almond Nitrogen Management
Project Title: Demonstration of a combined new leaf sampling technique for nitrogen analysis and nitrogen applications approach in almonds Project Leaders: Patrick Brown, University of California, Davis; Blake Sanden, University of California Cooperative Extension, Kern County; Allan Fulton, University of California Cooperative Extension, Tehama County; David Doll, University of California Cooperative Extension, Merced County. Project Status: Year 3 of 3 …
Research Update: Controlled Release Nitrogen Fertilizers
Project Title: Field Evaluation and Demonstration of Controlled Release Nitrogen Fertilizers in the Western United States Project Leaders: Charles Sanchez, University of Arizona, and Richard Smith, University of California Cooperative Extension Monterey County Project Status: Complete Overview: Controlled Release Nitrogen (CRN) has the potential to increase nitrogen use efficiency in desert vegetable production systems, by better matching nitrogen release with …
Upcoming Events of Interest
The California Department of Food and Agriculture’s Fertilizer Research and Education Program (FREP) will be tabling at a few upcoming events. Stop by to say ‘hello’ and pick up some of FREP’s educational materials on nutrient and irrigation management. Small Farms Conference What: Join us this February in Davis for the 31st annual California Small Farm Conference. This gathering is …
Research Update: Nitrogen Concentrations in Harvested Material
Project Leaders: Charlotte Gallock, Kings River Conservation District, John Dickey, Southern San Joaquin Valley Management Practices Evaluation Program (MPEP), and Ken Cassman, Senior Agronomic and Soils Advisor Project Status: Year One Overview: The goal of this project is to assist Central Valley growers and coalitions with nutrient management planning and performance assessment by updating nitrogen (N) removal coefficients and nitrogen …
New Technical Advisory Subcommittee Members Appointed
We are pleased to welcome Tom Bottoms and Suduan Gao to the Fertilizer Research and Education Program’s (FREP) Technical Advisory Subcommittee (TASC). TASC reviews and recommends research and education proposals for funding to the department’s Fertilizer Inspection Advisory Board. Tom Bottoms With a background in research, education, and now production, Dr. Tom Bottoms brings technical and applicable research expertise to …