Monitoring Soil Quality to Assess the Sustainability of Harvesting Corn Stover

摘要: Harvesting feedstock for biofuel production must not degrade soil, water, or air resources. Our objective is to provide an overview of field research being conducted quantify effects harvesting corn (Zea mays L.) stover as a bioenergy feedstock. Coordinated studies are near Ames, IA; St. Paul and Morris, MN; Mead, NE; University Park, PA; Florence, SC; Brookings, SD., part the USDA-ARS Renewable Energy Assessment Project (REAP). A baseline soil quality assessment was made using Soil Management Framework (SMAF). Corn grain residue yield two different harvest rates (~50% ~90%) measured. Available data remains quite limited but sufficient initial SMAF analysis that confirms total organic carbon (TOC) indicator needs be closely monitored crop removal effects. Overall, yields averaged 9.7 11.7 Mg ha -1 (155 186 bu acre ) in 2008 2009, values consistent with national averages both years. The average amount collected 50% treatment 2.6 4.2 while 90% resulted 5.4 7.4 , respectively. Based on recent literature review, scenarios could result gradual decline TOC. However, value has large standard error, so continuation this long-term multi-location study several years warranted.