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Lake Fork Reservoir Watershed, Texas

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Results and Discussion  

Because the potential for phosphorus loadings to the reservoir are high, TIAER research suggests controls on phosphorus-laden runoff. The following table shows the percentage impacts on producer's net returns and N and P loads to the reservoir of some of the scenarios.

Pasture Management System % Aggregate Change in Net Returns % Change in Total P % Change in Total N
Open access grazing
 0 0
0
Open access grazing, N-based stocking rate
 3 -12
-7
Open access grazing, high-P stocking rate -6 -23
-4
Open access grazing, low-P stocking rate -18 -38
1
Intensive rotational grazing 4 -64
-7
Grassed loafing lot
 -2 -26
-10
Open access grazing, reduced phosphorus feed ration 0 -19
0
Open access grazing, reduced phosphorus feed ration -8 -49
-3
Open access grazing, pasture edge filter strip, low-P stocking, low-P rate on hay fields -2 -6
-7

 

 
Lake Fork wetland. Photo by Ricky Trout.


TIAER research in the final project report for Lake Fork Reservoir, Precedents for Runoff Policy, recommends several alternatives including hauling off manure for compost and changing to free stall barns in cases where producers have difficulty controlling manure runoff from dairy lots and denuded pasture. The report also recommends more careful nutrient management on pasture as well as hay fields.
 
Research :: << Results >> :: Papers
 

2002 Texas Institute for Applied Environmental Research