Evaluating Greenhouse Gas Emissions in Promising Tillage and Manure Application Practices at Borderview Farm

Abstract

A research team at UVM, led by Dr. Carol Adair and Dr. Heather Darby, is evaluating the benefits and drawbacks of four different tillage approaches (conventional, strip, vertical, and no till) and two different methods of manure application (broadcast and injection). The goal is to determine the practices best suited for reducing greenhouse gas emission, improving carbon storage and limiting nitrogen losses. The team measures carbon dioxide and nitrous oxide emissions from the treatments every two weeks or more frequently after events (large rainfall, manure application) using a measuring device called photoacoustic multigas monitor.