Impacts of Conventional Agricultural Practices on Aquifer Water Quality: An Overview of the Plains, Georgia Water Quality Study
Author(s)
Bosch, David D.
Leonard, Ralph A.
Truman, Clint
West, Larry
Hicks, David W.
Advisor(s)
Editor(s)
Hatcher, Kathryn J.
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Abstract
Pesticide leaching to groundwater is a potential
problem in agricultural production areas of South Georgia where
sandy soils predominate. The aquifers in this region are an
important resource for South Georgia and North Florida. High
soil hydraulic conductivity, coupled with high water-table
conditions and high precipitation, can lead to groundwater
contamination in the area. A field study near Plains, GA, was
initiated in 1988, with the objective of establishing a better
understanding of agrichemical transport in this area. Data was
collected from 1988 to 1994 on a 0.81 ha research plot. Data
indicate under normal climatic conditions nutrient and pesticide
transport to groundwater is minimal. However, high precipitation
soon after chemical application, combined with a saturated root
zone, can lead to groundwater contamination Thus, extreme care
must be used to properly manage the application and soil-water
regime. Chemical application during periods of excess
precipitation and saturated soil-water conditions must be avoided.
Sponsor
Sponsored and Organized by: U.S. Geological Survey, Georgia Department of Natural Resources, The University of Georgia, Georgia State University, Georgia Institute of Technology
Date
1997-03
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Resource Type
Text
Resource Subtype
Proceedings