Phosphorus concentration and loading reductions following changes in fertilizer application and formulation on managed turf

Abstract

Excess phosphorus, particularly in surface waters can lead to severe eutrophication. Identifying source areas, quantifying contributions, and evaluating management practices are required to address current and future water quality concerns. A before-after study was conducted from 2003–2010 on a sub-watershed of Northland Country Club Golf Course in Duluth, MN to demonstrate the impacts of two different phosphorus management approaches (Period 1: traditional application and timing using commercially available synthetic blends; Period 2: reduced rate, low dose applications, and organic formulations). Outflow median dissolved reactive phosphorus (DRP) and total phosphorus (TP) stream concentrations were significantly less in Period 2 compared to Period 1. There was no statistical difference in the mean TP loading in Period 1 (0.25 kg ha⁻¹ year⁻¹) compared to Period 2 (0.20 kg ha⁻¹ year⁻¹) or between the DRP loading in Period 1 (0.15 kg ha⁻¹ year⁻¹) compared to Period 2 (0.09 kg ha⁻¹ year⁻¹). However, by switching to organic phosphorus formulations and reducing application rates by greater than 75%, substantial reduction in DRP and TP concentrations was achieved. Based on these findings it is recommended that turf managers (parks and recreation to golf courses) explore the feasibility of altering their fertility management related to phosphorus by including organic formulations, low dose applications, and overall rate reductions. Additionally, it is recommended that the fertilizer industry develop and make more readily available commercial blends with lesser to zero amounts of phosphorus.