75-1 Practical Applications of Agricultural Gypsum to Improve Crop Productivity.



Monday, October 17, 2011: 9:20 AM
Henry Gonzalez Convention Center, Room 214A, Concourse Level

Ron Chamberlain, Gypsoil Division of Beneficial Reuse Management, Chicago, IL
The author will share observations from ten years of experience working in the field to assist growers using agricultural gypsum.  The presentation will focus on the impact of using gypsum to improve crop productivity.

The author will describe soil tests and soil conditions when gypsum is recommended to support improved crop performance.  The presentation will discuss the benefits of using gypsum to balance soil chemistry and improve soil structure. 

He will report observations of practical results from using gypsum to improve crop productivity, including:

  • Improved biological activity and nutrient utilization;
  • Better plant rooting;
  • Yield response.

The presentation will highlight several case study farms where gypsum has been used to remediate soil quality and improve crop productivity, including for alfalfa, corn, soybeans, and other specialty crops.

The author will discuss application methods, rates, use guidelines, costs and other agronomic considerations for using gypsum in agriculture.  The presentation will provide details about commercial gypsum product specs, including chemical analysis, specific gravity, bulk density, pH, particle size and other technical data related to products.  He will also provide an overview of Gypsoil’s business model, including its growing distribution network in the Midwest, Southeast and Delta.

See more from this Division: ASA Section: Environmental Quality
See more from this Session: Gypsum Use: Effects On Agricultural Productivity and Soil/Water Quality