Optimization of Nitrogen Fertilization according to Irrigation Water Salt Content (NITROSAL)

Cofinanciado por:
Project title | Optimization of Nitrogen Fertilization according to Irrigation Water Salt Content (NITROSAL)
Project Code | PTDC/AGR-AAM/66004/2006
Main objective |

Region of intervention |

Beneficiary entity |
  • Instituto Nacional de Investigação Agrária e das Pescas(líder)
  • Instituto Superior Técnico(parceiro)
  • Universidade de Évora(parceiro)

Approval date | 01-05-2007
Start date | 01-05-2007
Date of the conclusion | 31-12-2010

Total eligible cost |
European Union financial support |
National/regional public financial support |
Apoio financeiro atribuído à Universidade de Évora | 65300 €

Summary

Soil and water resources protection is increasing importance at the legislation level (e.g. Water Framework Directive and D.L. 236/98 and the future Soil Framework Directive, see COM (2002) 179), where soil salinization/sodification and nitrate leaching are enhanced. High salts levels in the irrigation water, common in regions with water shortage, associated with the excessive use of nutrients from inadequate agriculture practices, are some of the threats in vulnerable regions. In this project, we intended to study this problem, in an integrated approach, in Alvalade-Sado (Alentejo region), using sweet sorghum (a bioenergetic crop) as a test crop and to characterize its production according to the water quality and the type of fertilization. The common sense is that the increase of salts content in water irrigation induces a crop yield reduction. A study being carried out by this team, showed that small amounts of sodium can increase the yield.

Goals, activities and expected/achieved results

Goals

This project aims to study the exchange mechanisms between Na+ e NH4+ in saline conditions and to develop techniques for optimal nitrogen fertilization according to the salt concentration in irrigation water.Sweet sorghum will be used as a test crop.

Activities

The results of this task are: 6.1 - Maximization of the efficiency of the project implementation,6.2 – Maximization of the interaction between partners and disciplines,6.3- Optimization of results dissemination. 
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