In-field treatment of crop residue through physicochemical degradation

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To help agricultural producers manage their crop residues, SaskCanola had conducted field-scale trials to evaluate the impact of residue degradation on canola emergence and yield on Saskatchewan farms. Crop residue degradation can have a significant impact on canola production. Degradative products and degradation levels determine the bioavailability of nutrients. Thus, it is necessary to develop a method for direct evaluation of crop residue degradation. However, SaskCanola does not have the technology nor expertise to evaluate the process and extent of crop residue breakdown. We will provide SaskCanola with the technology and knowledge required to understand how in-field management practices affect crop residue degradation that will help to maximize seeding and canola crop yields in Saskatchewan. A database for FTIR (Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy) technique will be developed for accurate and direct measurements of the degradation products of crop residue. The IR spectra will help qualify functional groups of original and degraded components in crop residue and quantify their changes. It will provide details on the identification of degradative products and degradation degree. The proposed project will help agricultural specialists gain insight into the physiochemical characteristics for the degradation of crop residue in Saskatchewan. It will be beneficial for identifying appropriate combinations of tillage and treatments to maximize future yields, while meeting minimal management needs and recovering valuable nutrients. The developed technologies will become valuable assets for Canadian agriculture production. It will also benefit the environment and communities by reducing agricultural waste and producing green products.