What technique can help reduce phosphorus transport from a field?

Using buffer strips is an effective technique for reducing phosphorus transport from a field. Buffer strips are areas of vegetation, such as grasses or shrubs, planted between agricultural fields and water bodies. These areas serve multiple functions in managing nutrient runoff.

Buffer strips absorb excess nutrients, including phosphorus, before they can enter waterways. The plant roots and soil structure in these strips help to filter out and retain phosphorus, reducing its mobility. This filtration process decreases the likelihood of phosphorus reaching surface water, where it can contribute to problems like eutrophication, which results in harmful algal blooms and negatively impacts aquatic ecosystems.

While cover crops, crop rotation, and minimum tillage can also contribute to promoting soil health and reducing erosion, their primary benefits focus on maintaining soil structure, enhancing biodiversity, or preventing soil degradation. They do not specifically target phosphorus transport as directly and effectively as buffer strips do. Overall, buffer strips are a strategic practice to manage nutrient runoff effectively, thus protecting water quality.