Title:
Impacts of Conventional Agricultural Practices on Aquifer Water Quality: An Overview of the Plains, Georgia Water Quality Study

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Author(s)
Bosch, David D.
Leonard, Ralph A.
Truman, Clint
West, Larry
Hicks, David W.
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Advisor(s)
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 Issued
1997-03
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Text
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Proceedings
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