The six upflow columns constructed as lab-scale representation bioreactors have successfully run at an 8 hour HRT and 16 hour HRT for three months each. Three upflow columns were packed with corncobs and the other three were packed with woodchips. The goal of this study is to determine key differences in microbial communities between corncob and woodchip bioreactor environments that impact performance. Specifically, we aim to identify key components of microbial communities and optimize design, while analyzing interactions of microbes to allow for system improvement. Read more about Unlocking the bioreactor microbiome for nutrient management and water quality Jul 2024

In the spring of 2024, cover crop biomass was collected in Ames twice. The first sample was on April 5 and the second at termination on May 14. Corn was planted on May 18, and the nitrogen treatments were applied on the same day. Three sequential in-situ mineralization tubes were placed and collected in two-week intervals prior to and following corn planting. Read more about Can adjustments to nitrogen rates reduce corn yield drag and disease implications following a cereal rye cover crop? Jun 2024

Since the last report, significant advances have been made in advancing our project objectives. A pivotal achievement includes the development of a down scalable version of the DEP (named OFEtool), which now facilitates precise estimations of soil displacement and runoff within the subfield scale for every agricultural field in the DEP domain. Moreover, our development of the OFEtool has brought to light certain mistakes and inconsistencies in our previous DEP simulations. Read more about Equipping conservation practitioners with quantitative estimations of sediment and P reduction from BMPs Jun 2024

Researchers purchased necessary supplies for field/lab work. Established field sampling locations and tested and finalized field methodologies. Established field team and conducted technical training. Initiated round one of wetland sampling (ongoing). Read more about Co-benefits and possible unintended consequences of restoring wetlands for nutrient reduction Jun 2024

FINAL REPORT

They key research questions for this project were the extent to which farmers will participate in carbon markets, how those markets will interact with existing nutrient-focused conservation programs, and whether and how existing conservation programs can be modified to improvement cost-effectiveness in light of the carbon markets. Read more about The effectiveness of carbon credit programs at reducing nutrient losses: An assessment of public and private conservation programs and their interactions. Jul 2024