Soil compaction constraints on conservation tillage in the northern Corn Belt

W. B. Voorhees; M. J. Lindstrom

ABSTRACT:

Soil compaction caused by wheel traffic during planting and harvesting cannot be eliminated regardless of tillage system. Compaction during planting can cause increased runoff and soil erosion. Subsoil compaction during harvesting can cause poor internal drainage, delayed planting, loss of nitrogen, and lower yields. These problems are due in part to incomplete amelioration by natural forces over winter and may be amplified by some conservation tillage systems. In particular, continued use of no-till may not be feasible on fine-textured soils. Ways exist to minimize the detrimental effects of wheel-induced compaction, but some research needs remain, especially with respect to residue placement.

Footnotes

W. B. Voorhees and M. J. Lindstrom are soil scientists, Agricultural Research Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Morris. Minnesota 56267. This article is a contribution from the North Central Soil Conservation Research Laboratory, ARS, USDA, Morris, Minnesota, in cooperation with the Minnesota Agricultural Experiment Station.
Copyright 1983 by the Soil and Water Conservation Society

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