Page 80 - Nutrient Management Planning Guide

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Chapter 3.1

The five features of site management •

to document are: soil physical properties (texture and structure), slope, water bodies, problematic soil conditions and site management practices. Slope grade is the relationship between •

rise and run, and can be determined using clinometer or GPS technology. Slope length can be determined by visual •

estimation, pacing the distance or vehicle odometer. Water bodies need to be identified because •

of potential adverse effects of nutrients on water quality and legislated setback distances under AOPA.

Problematic soil conditions that affect •

productivity include: salinity, extremes in soil pH, solonetzic soils, organic soils and eroded areas. Some additional physical features that •

could be identified in a site assessment includes: public roads or ditches,

irrigation structures, wildlife habitat, rock outcroppings, proximity to neighbours, areas of compacted soil or soils with drainage issues. A feature should be included in a site •

assessment if it will affect the rate, timing or pattern of nutrient application; if it increases the environmental risk of field operations; if it requires in an alternative management practice; or if it is a potential hazard or obstacle to field equipment.

summary