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Reducing soil phosphate levels in nature areas
Turning agricultural land into nature areas
The project Evenwichtige verschraling or 'Balanced soil nutrient decrease' (2007-2010) is aimed at turning former agricultural land in the Dutch province of Brabant into biodiverse natural areas. The high phosphate inputs required for agricultural production have led to phosphate-rich soils that promote unbalanced, low diversity plant communities. However, the aim of nature conservation organisations such as Staatsbosbeheer and Natuurmonumenten is to increase biodiversity. This requires that soil phosphate levels be decreased. The project is funded by the Province of Noord-Brabant, the Dutch Government Service for Land and Water Management DLG, and the steering group Agricultural Innovation Brabant. The project has been initiated by ZLTO chapter de Hilver.Grass-Clover and potash key to improving biodiversity
To tackle the soil phosphate problem, the Louis Bolk Institute has developed a new method: growing grass-clover combined with potassium fertilizer additions. This system removes more phosphate from the soil than unfertilized grass-clover. Moreover, the hay has a higher feeding value. These are promising results for both livestock farmers and nature management. Together with DLV Rundvee Advies we are presently conducting the first large-scale field trials, on 60 ha in the Drunense Duinen nature area.
For more information please contact Bart Timmermans.
