RPR revisited (2): Long-term farmer experience helps define the role of RPR in grazed pastures

Authors

  • M. Zaman
  • B.F. Quin

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.33584/jnzg.2012.74.2866

Abstract

The commercial introduction of reactive phosphate rock (RPR) to the New Zealand market in 1987 was the subject of much dispute regarding its efficacy, and the differing interpretations of field trial results. Twenty-five years on, it was considered time to seek the views of farmers who are long-term users of RPR, across a wide range of geographic, soil type, fertility, climate and farming operations. The fact that the farmers interviewed have all been farming successfully with RPR for many years enables conditions suitable for RPR use to be identified more clearly compared to earlier advice. This progress is discussed in the context of utilising the proven reduced phosphorus (P) run-off with RPR to reduce P eutrophication in P-sensitive catchments. Key words: Reactive phosphate rock, RPR, superphosphate, SSP, long-term use, phosphorus runoff, eutrophication, water quality, recommendations

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Published

2012-01-01

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Section

Articles