Nitrogen and phosphorous losses from manure and fertilizers were modeled for dairy farms, with different stocking densities and fertilizer rates, to determine combinations that could reduce water pollution, in a northeastern Texas watershed. The estimated effects of using new fertilizer and stocking rates for 30 years revealed that these practices can significantly reduce the amount of nitrogen and phosphorous entering the watershed. However, the effects of the new management on farmers' income varies, depending on the method of management that is used. In some cases income is increased; while other in other cases income is decreased from 6-18%. Generally, higher income scenarios do not decrease watershed pollution as much as reduced income scenarios. Therefore, the authors concluded that pollution in this Texas watershed can be reduced with better management of fertilizer and stocking rates, however, the reduction in pollution will depend on the farmers' financial and environmental objectives.
Citations and enhanced abstracts for journals articles and documents focused on rangeland ecology and management. RSIS is a collaboration between Montana State University, University of Idaho, and University of Wyoming.