Optimizing Phosphorus 4R Nutrient Stewardship for water quality protection in Canadian Cropping Systems

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The eutrophication of surface waters is a global cause of water-quality impairment, and excess phosphorus (P) has been identified as the driver of algal blooms in freshwater systems. Case studies testing the efficacy of conservation practices to reduce losses of P to tributaries and lakes have produced contrasting conclusions in different regions, leading to confusion and frustration among landowners and decision-makers. Fertilizer Canada has taken a leadership role in developing the 4Rs nutrient stewardship strategy, in which nutrients are applied at or in the Right Rate, Right Place, Right Time and Right Form/Type. The goal of this partnership (researchers + industry + agricultural specialists) is to identify region-based agricultural solutions that will improve nutrient and water use efficiency to ensure the resilience of crop production and water quality in key Canadian agricultural regions. Through this partnership, we will examine the effects of 4Rs nutrient stewardship strategies on combined agronomic productivity and water quality in two key, but contrasting, agricultural regions of Canada: The Northern Great Plains (NGP) or Canadian Prairies, and the more temperate Great Lakes Region (GLR). Using a series of field and lab-based experiments in conjunction with field-based monitoring over multiple years, this project will uniquely, simultaneously explore the impacts of 4R nutrient stewardship on both water quality and crop productivity within fields, but also water quality beyond the edge of field. We will communicate scientific outcomes through white papers, media, farmer meetings and advanced training modules for agricultural specialists. The co-investigators and partners in this project include many of the leading Canadian experts on this subject matter who are highly experienced and can build on their existing work, adding value to the work proposed here. Through this work, we will significantly advance our understanding of the suitability of different 4Rs practices and ensure that we are using the right practices in the right places to optimize agriculture in Canada.