USGS Home
SOFIA - SFRSF


HOME
Search the SFRSF site Learn about this site Sign up SFRSF Directory Upcoming events Resource Management Exhibits Science Displays
  ACME and SICS
  Historical Settings
  Hydrology
  Invasive Exotic Species
  Landscape Synthesis and Ecological Modeling
  Mercury
  Nutrients
  Our Coastal Ecosystems
Sustainable Agriculture

  Wildlife and Wetland Ecology
Presentations and Discussions Technology Briefings May 1999 Forum


SOFIA Home

Last updated: June 11, 2003
South Florida Restoration Science Forum

Sustainable Agriculture

How can sugarcane research in the Everglades Agricultural Area enable natural land managers and farmers to work together to reduce phosphorus and restore natural hydrology?

Poster presented May 1999, at the South Florida Restoration Science Forum

Poster presented by: Mr. Barry Glaz (Canal Point) and Dr. Jeff Ray (Gainesville), USDA-ARS

Part 1: Quantifying Water Management Effects in Sugarcane Production on Sustainability of Histosols in the EAA

Research Conducted in Cooperation by
USDA
Agricultural Research Service
U. S. Sugar Corporation
University of Florida

Objective: Quantify the effects of alternative water management in production of sugarcane on soil subsidence.

Approach: Determine the effects of three water-table management practices on soil microorganisms. The effects of water-table management on soil microbial degradation of these substrates is indicative of the effects of water-table management on degradation of soil organic matter, subsidence, and sustainability of EAA Histosols. Water management consists of three water-table depths, WT 1 [6" (below soil surface)], WT 2 [15"], and WT 3 [24"].

Progress: We are currently 75% complete with the initial two-year study.

Data indicate reduced soil microbial activity with higher water tables.

graph of soil microbial activity as substrate degraded
(Click on image above for a full-sized version.)

Plans: Following the initial two-year study.....

  • We will develop mathematical models which will allow prediction of water management effects on soil subsidence.
  • We will incorporate these data with sugarcane yield data from varieties grown under the respective water management systems.


Related Links


Next Next: USDA-ARS and Florida Crystals


U.S. Department of the Interior, U.S. Geological Survey, Center for Coastal Geology
This page is: http://sofia.usgs.gov/sfrsf/rooms/sustain/sugarcane/index.html
Comments and suggestions? Contact: Heather Henkel - Webmaster
Last updated: 11 June, 2003 @ 11:26 AM (HSH)