The Iowa Learning Farms (ILF) conservation webinar taking place June 25, at noon CDT will feature Elliot Anderson, assistant research scientist, University of Iowa. Anderson’s research centers on the statistical analysis and modeling of water quality in Iowa, primarily focusing on nutrients and sediment. He is also a researcher with the Iowa Geological Survey.

In the webinar, “Quantifying Iowa’s Annual Phosphorus Budget,” Anderson will draw on the results of a research project that estimated the annual phosphorus mass from four input (fertilizer, manure, humans and industrial activities) and three output (harvest, grazing and streamflow) pathways. He will discuss how these elements were used to determine Iowa’s phosphorus budget over the past 25 years. Anderson will highlight the research process that determined the magnitude and trend of each budget component that was quantified and compared to the total amount of phosphorus present within Iowa’s soils.

“Phosphorus is one of Iowa’s most important chemicals and understanding how much of it enters and exits Iowa’s landscape provides several insights into Iowa’s economy, agricultural industry and ecology,” said Anderson. “When we view phosphorus at a statewide scale, we can see considerable variability in nutrient transport from year to year, but typical activities in Iowa balance out to a phosphorus deficit.”

Participants are encouraged to ask questions of the presenters. People from all backgrounds and areas of interest are encouraged to join.

Up Next: Wednesday, July 2, "Adoption and Disadoption of Conservation Practices in the U.S.,” with Alejandro Plastina, University of Missouri

Upcoming Webinars in the Series:

July 9: Wenjuan Huang, Iowa State University

July 16: Roland Wilhelm, Purdue University