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Washington State University - Puyallup Organic Farming Systems and Nutrient Management

Recursos en Español

Recursos en Español

 

♣ Recursos para Productores Latinos – Nuestro Programa de Agricultores Latinos apoye a productores para que sus negocios agrícolas tengan éxito. Enfocado en el Noroeste de Washington, ayudamos a productores a profundizar su conocimiento a través de talleres y cursos, escribir un plan de negocios y un plan total de granja, solicitar prestamos y subvenciones, conectarse con mercados y compradores y explorar nuevos productos de valor agregado y más.

♣ Publicaciones en Español de la Universidad Estadal de Washington.

♣ Publicaciones en Español de la Universidad de la Estadal de Oregon.

♣ Publicaciones en Español de la Universidad de Idaho.

 

 

 

 

Organic Farming

Organic Farming Projects

Overview:

WSU Puyallup has 12 acres of certified organic farming research land and several more acres of non certified land that has been managed organically. Current and past experiments include the Organic Farming Systems experiment, cover crop trials, climate change gas experiments, food safety, pastured poultry, and improving no till and minimum tillage methods.

Research areas:

♣ Organic Farming Systems for Vegetable Crop Production

In 2002 we began the Organic Farming Systems experiment, an integrated research program focused on sustainable and organic production systems for small-scale, direct-market vegetable crop production. Our goal is to work with farmers to develop management systems that utilize local inputs to produce high-quality, high-value crops efficiently and profitably in an environmentally sustainable manner.

♣ Using Local Sources of Organic Nutrients

Using locally available organic materials (manures, yard wastes, etc) reduces nutrient imbalances and improves soil productivity.  Information on managing such materials including nutrient availability, equipment compatibility, potential side effects, economics.

♣ Cover Crops

We have been working with winter and summer cover crops to find varieties most effective at reducing weeds in later crops. Cover crops reduce erosion, improve soil structure, and provide organic matter and nitrogen to the soil. Research results and photo essays.

♣ Soil Quality

We measured soil physical and biological properties in a variety of crop and management organic farming systems to see how they affected the soil quality over time. Looked at were soil texture, bulk density, nitrogen, organic matter, microorganisms, and their relationships.

♣ Pastured Poultry

We raised slow and fast growing Cornish Cross poultry in our Organic Farming Systems plots.  They provided nutrients to the soil for the vegetables grown during the cash crop part of the pasture/crop rotation, as well as income during the pasture part of the rotation. Included are moveable cage plans and comparisons of the different Cornish Cross varieties.

♣ Farmer Focus Groups: Soil Fertility and Water Quality

Online PDF Summary of three focus groups with organic and conventional Western Washington Farmers held in 2002.  The objective of a focus group is not to reach consensus or make decisions, but to simply gain the greatest possible understanding of the topic from the perspective of all participants.  Topics included Soil Fertility, Cover Crops, Soil Testing, Stream Bank Management and Water Quality.

Slideshows, Photos, and Webinars:

♣ Photo Gallery from certified organic research land (HTML-Online)

♣ Soils and Fertilizer (72 slides, PDF-Online, use browser down scrollbar to advance slides).  Soil physical properties, fertilizers, soil amendments, cover crops.

♣ Introduction to Summer Cover Crops (16 slides, PDF-Online, use browser down scrollbar to advance slides)

♣ Closing the Recycling Loop Through Organic Amendments in Agriculture and Gardens (Webinar-Online, Original broadcast date 5 Jan 2011. Slow loading, please wait till after “check our troubleshooting…” goes away.  Needs Flash Player to run which is not available on Apple products).

Current & Past Project Support:

♣ USDA Integrated Organic Program CSREES

♣ WSU Center for Sustaining Agriculture and Natural Resource Organic Program

♣ Western Region SARE Grants No. GW06-011, SW03-040

♣ USDA IFAFS Grant No. 2001-52101-11349

 

Links:

♣ WSU Center for Sustaining Agriculture and Natural Resources, information, publications, links, events, programs.

♣ Cultivating Success, sustainable small farm information for Washington and Idaho.

♣ Food Systems (integrates former Small Farms), information, calendar, resources, programs.

♣ Oregon State University Cover Crops Bulletins,  A series of bulletins that describes the uses and management cover crops grown in the Pacific Northwest

♣ Managing Cover Crops Profitably, 3rd ed., Free ebook download or purchase hardcopy. Published by USDA Sustainable Agriculture Network. This publication summarizes research data and farmer evaluations of cover crops grown across the United States.

♣ University of California Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education Program Cover Crop Resource Page

♣ Nutrient Management Guide: Sweet Corn (PDF-Online). For both conventional and organic growers.

♣ Nutrient Management Guide: Silage Corn (PDF-Online).

Publications:

♣ Soil Physical Properties, Nitrogen, and Crop Yield in Organic Vegetable Production Systems (PDF-Online). Cogger. C.G., A.I. Bary, E.A. Myhre, A. Fortuna, and D.P. Collins. 2016.  Agron. J. 108:1142-1154. doi:12.2134agronj2015.0335

♣ Potential Carbon Sequestration and Nitrogen Cycling in Long-Term Organic Management Systems (PDF-Online). Bhowmik, A. Fortuna, L.J. Cihacek, A.I. Bary, P.M Carr, and C.G. Cogger. 2016.  Renewable Agric Food Sys. doi:10.1017/S1742170516000429

♣ Use of Biological Indicators of Soil Health to Estimate Reactive Nitrogen Dynamics in Long-Term Organic Vegetable and Pasture Systems (PDF-Online). Bhowmik, A. Fortuna, L.J. Cihacek, A.I. Bary, and C.G. Cogger. 2016.  Soil Biol. Biochem. 103:308-319.

♣ Influence of Seeding Ratio, Planting Date, and Termination Date on Rye-Hairy Vetch Cover Crop Mixture Performance Under Organic Management (PDF-Online). Lawson A., C. Cogger, A.Bary, A. Fortuna. 2015. PLoS ONE 10(6): e0129597. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0129597

♣ Cover Crop Effects on Light, Nitrogen, and Weeds in Organic Reduced Tillage (PDF-Online).  Wayman, S., C.G Cogger., C. Benedict, D.P. Collins, I Burke, and A.I Bary. 2015. Agroecology and Sustainable Food Systems, 39:647-665. doi: 10.1080/21683565.2015.1018398

♣ The Influence of Cover Crop Variety, Termination Timing, and Termination Method on Mulch, Weed Cover, and Soil Nitrate in Reduced-Tillage Organic Systems (Request pdf e-copy). Wayman, S., C. Cogger, C. Benedict, I. Burke, D. Collins, and A. Bary. 2014. Renewable Agric Food Sys. doi:10.1017/S1742170514000246

♣ Soil Fertility in Organic Systems – A Guide for Gardeners and Small Acreage Farmers (Request pdf e-copy). Collins, D. C. Miles, C. Cogger, and R. Koenig. 2013. Pacific Northwest Extension Publication PNW 646.

♣ Nitrogen Contribution of Rye-Hairy Vetch Cover Crop Mixtures to Organically Grown Sweet Corn (Request pdf e-copy). Lawson, A., A. M. Fortuna, C.G. Cogger, A.I. Bary, and T. Stubbs. 2012. Renew. Ag. Food Sys. 28:59-69. Available on CJO doi:10.1017/S1742170512000014.

♣ Farm-Scale Variation of Soil Quality Indices and Association with Edaphic Properties (Request pdf e-copy). Collins, D.P., C.G. Cogger, A.C. Kennedy, T. Forge, H.P. Collins, A.I. Bary, and R. Rossi. 2011. Soil Sci. Soc. Am. J. 75:580-590.

♣ Management Effects on Soil Quality in Organic Vegetable Systems in Western Washington (Request pdf e-copy). Pritchett, K., A.C. Kennedy, and C.G. Cogger. 2011. Soil Sci. Soc. Am. J. 75:605-615.

♣ Nutrient Management Guide: Sweet Corn (Western Oregon) (PDF-Online). For both conventional and organic growers. Hart, J.M, D.M. Sullivan, J.R. Myers, and R.E. Peachey. 2010. Oregon State University Extension Service. EM9010-E.

♣ Nutrient Management Guide: Silage Corn (Western Oregon) (PDF-Online) For both conventional and organic growers. Hart, J.M., D.M. Sullivan, M. Gamroth, T. Downing, and A. Peters. 2009. Oregon State University Extension Service.  EM8978-E.

♣ Estimating Plant-Available Nitrogen Release from Manures, Composts, and Specialty Products (Request pdf e-copy). Gale, E.S., D.M. Sullivan, C.G. Cogger, A.I. Bary, D.D. Hemphill, and E.A. Myhre. 2006. J. Environ. Qual. 35:2321-2332.

♣ Fertilizing with Manure and Other Organic Amendments (PDF-Online). Bary, A., C. Cogger, and D.M. Sullivan.  2016.  PNW0533.  Washington State University Cooperative Extension, Oregon State University Cooperative Extension System, US Department of Agriculture.

♣ Fertilizing Farmland with Yard Trimmings from Landscape Maintenance (PDF-Online). Bary, A.I., C.G. Cogger, and D.M. Sullivan. 2016. FS222E. Washington State University Extension.

♣ Soil Management for Small Farms (PDF-Online). Cogger, C.G.  2000.  EB 1895.  Washington State University Cooperative Extension, Oregon State University Extension Service, University of Idaho Cooperative Extension System, US Department of Agriculture.

Cover Crops

Cover Crops

Overview:

Cover crops are used to supply fresh organic matter to soils, improve soil structure, fix nitrogen, cycle nutrients, protect soil from erosion, and as a tool to manage weeds and other pests. Choice and management of cover crops depends on which benefits are most important, and on the cropping system.

Our research has been focused on fall-planted and relay-planted cover crops.  We have evaluated the effects of different fall-planted rye vetch blends, planting dates, and incorporation dates on ground cover, winter weed competition, and nitrogen supply to the subsequent crop.  Relay planting is the planting of cover crops between rows of the cash crop during the summer or early fall. Our relay cover crop research was focused on establishment, survival, ground cover, and N supply capability of legumes interseeded into standing vegetable crops.  Recent research is focused on cover crop management in reduced tillage organic systems.

Cover Crops Photo Essays:

Interseeded cover crop demonstrations over various dates:

Organic Systems Experiment over various dates:

Publications:

♣ Nitrogen Contribution of Rye-Hairy Vetch Cover Crop Mixtures to Organically Grown Sweet Corn (PDF-Online).  Lawson, A., A. M. Fortuna, C.G. Cogger, A.I. Bary, and T. Stubbs.  2012.  Renew. Ag. Food Sys. 28:59-69.  Available on CJO doi:10.1017/S1742170512000014.

♣ Influence of Seeding Ratio, Planting Date, and Termination Date on Rye-Hairy Vetch Cover Crop Mixture Performance Under Organic Management (PDF-Online). Lawson A., C. Cogger, A.Bary, A. Fortuna. 2015. PLoS ONE 10(6): e0129597. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0129597

♣ Cover Crop Effects on Light, Nitrogen, and Weeds in Organic Reduced Tillage (PDF-Online).  Wayman, S., C.G Cogger., C. Benedict, D.P. Collins, I Burke, and A.I Bary. 2015. Agroecology and Sustainable Food Systems, 39:647-665. doi: 10.1080/21683565.2015.1018398

♣ The Influence of Cover Crop Variety, Termination Timing, and Termination Method on Mulch, Weed Cover, and Soil Nitrate in Reduced-Tillage Organic Systems (PDF-Online). Wayman, S. C. Cogger, C. Benedict, I. Burke, D. Collins, and A. Bary. 2014. Renewable Agric Food Sys. doi: http://dx.doi.org/10.1017/S1742170514000246

Manure

Manure as a Resource

Overview:

The separation of animal agriculture from crop production has led to accumulation of excess manure on livestock farms. Crop farms can benefit from this manure as a source of nutrients and organic matter, if the manure is suitable for their needs and shipping does not make the cost prohibitive. We have assessed the nutrient values of different sources of manure and their suitability for crop production (see “♣ Predicting Nitrogen Availability for Organic Amendments“). Our publication “♣ Fertilizing with Manure and Other Organic Amendments” is a guide for crop farmers for evaluating manure sources, and testing and applying manure.

Horse Manure and Soil Nitrogen

Horse manure is an abundant, locally available source of organic matter for soils.  A major concern about horse manure is that it can cause a nitrogen deficiency when added to soils, leading to stunted, yellowed crops.  In a study of 36 farms and stables in King County we measured nitrogen levels in horse manure (see: “♣ Horse Manure and Soil Nitrogen“).

Managing Dairy Manure to Protect Water Quality

Water quality problems, changing herd management patterns, and increased regulation have made manure management a critical issue for dairy farmers. Our immediate goal is to help dairy farmers improve the use of manure to increase agronomic benefits and reduce the risk of over-application, runoff, and leaching. Our long-term goal is to help farmers identify chronic nutrient imbalances, and develop ways to reduce nutrient imports or increase exports. We have done research on 1) rate and timing of dairy slurry applications to forage grass, 2) pre-sidedress nitrate testing for corn, 3) whole-farm flows on dairies. Manure application rates have traditionally been based on nitrogen, but phosphorus has emerged as the nutrient of concern in many watersheds.

Links:

♣ Manure Spreading Advisory Page – Manure Application Risk Management for the Puget Sound.  When can you apply manure anywhere in the Puget Sound region, given current conditions?  Interactive, specs based on: time of year, current weather forecast for your farm, individual field conditions.

♣ Oregon State University Nutrient Management, Dan Sullivan. Focus is on nutrient management for animal manure and other organic by-products.

♣ A Horse Owner’s Guide to Good Stewardship.   R. James, Ohio State University, good soil and water stewardship practices for horse owners.

♣ Environmental Stewardship for Small-Scale Animal Producers. This is a series of fact sheets on topics including manure management, pastures, runoff, protecting water quality, animal mortalities, and environmental stewardship for horse owners. This link includes an opportunity to review these bulletins and share your comments with the authors.

Publications:

♣ Fertilizing with Manure and Other Organic Amendments (PDF-Online). Bary, A., C. Cogger, and D.M. Sullivan. 2016. Washington State University Cooperative Extension, Oregon State University Cooperative Extension System, US Department of Agriculture. PNW0533.

♣ Estimating Plant-Available Nitrogen Release from Manures, Composts, and Specialty Products (Request pdf e-copy). Gale, E.S., D.M. Sullivan, C.G. Cogger, A.I. Bary, D.D. Hemphill, and E.A. Myhre. 2006. J. Environ. Qual. 35:2321-2332.

♣ Manure on Your Farm: Asset or Liability (PDF-Online). Cogger, C.G. 2004. LPES Small Farms Fact Sheet.

♣ Post Harvest Soil Nitrate Testing for Manured Cropping Systems West of the Cascades (PDF-Online).  Sullivan, D.M. and C.G. Cogger. 2003.EM8832-E. Oregon State University Extension Service.

♣ Supercow: A Liquid Manure Applicator for Small Plot Research (HTML-Online). Bary, A.I., D.M. Sullivan, S.C. Fransen, and C.G. Cogger. 2001. Agronomy J. 93:1344-1345.

♣ Whole-Farm Nutrient Flow and Manure Management (PDF-Online). Cogger, C.G., T.N. Cramer, A.I. Bary, and D.C. Grusenmeyer. 1998.p. 581-586. In Animal Production Systems and the Environment. Des Moines, IA, 19-22 July, 1998.

♣ Sweet Corn (Western Oregon) Nutrient Management Guide (PDF-Online).  Hart, J.M., D.M. Sullivan, J.R. Myers, and R.E. Peachey. 2010.  EM9010-E. Oregon State University Extension Service

♣ Date, Rate, & Place: The Field Book for Dairy Manure Applicators (PDF-Online).  Bary, A.I. and J. Harrison. 2017. PNW 506. Pacific Northwest Extension Publication.

♣ Which Test is Best? Customizing Dairy Manure Nutrient Testing (PDF-Online). Sullivan, D.M., C.G. Cogger, and A.I. Bary. 1997. PNW 505. Pacific Northwest Extension Publication.

♣ Timing of Dairy Manure Applications to Perennial Grass on Well-Drained and Poorly-Drained Soils (Request pdf e-copy). Sullivan, D.M., C.G. Cogger, A.I. Bary, and S.C. Fransen. 2000. J. Soil & Water Conservation. J. Soil and Water Conservation 55:147-152.

♣ Biosolids and Dairy Manure as Nitrogen Sources for Prairiegrass on a Poorly Drained Soil (Request pdf e-copy). Sullivan, D.M., S.C. Fransen, C.G. Cogger, and A.I. Bary. 1997. J. Prod. Agric. 10:589-596.

Gardening

Gardening Publications from Our Group

The main ♣ WSU Gardening Resource website has many excellent publications and resources for Gardeners, including the ♣ Master Gardener’s program.  Below are our program’s contributions, covering topics such as Nutrients and Amendments for Organic and Non-Organic Gardens, Cover Crops, Lead Contamination, Raised Beds, Biosolids, and Parking Strip Gardens.

Fertility, Amendments:

♣ A Home Gardener’s Guide to Soils and Fertilizers (PDF-Online). How can the home gardener maximize soil productivity? This guide gives detailed information on soil structure, fertility, and irrigation in your garden. Instructions on the appropriate use of both organic and synthetic fertilizers are provided, as well as information on creating and using compost. See below companion publication “Garden Fertilizer Calculator” to calculate your specific fertilizer needs.  Cogger, C. 2014. WSU Extension EM063E.

♣ Garden Fertilizer Calculator (PDF with embedded Excel xlsx-Online). A companion publication to “A Home Gardener’s Guide to Soils and Fertilizers.” Read that bulletin (link above) for more in depth details on fertilizers and amendments. Gardens, lawns, single plants, or short rows: how much organic or conventional fertilizer to add for each? Cogger, C. 2019. WSU Extension, US Dept. Agriculture. FS324E

♣ Organic Soil Amendments in Yards and Gardens: How Much is Enough? (PDF-Online). Organic soil amendments can benefit most garden soils, however, applying too much can waste money, risk harming water quality, and even harm plants. This fact sheet describes the benefits of using organic soil amendments, the characteristics of the various types available, and most importantly, how much to apply in home gardens and landscapes. Cogger, C. and G. Stahnke. 2013  WSU Extension. FS123E

♣ Soil Fertility in Organic Systems – A Guide for Gardeners and Small Acreage Farmers (PDF-Online). This publication discusses the many types of fertilizers and soil amendments available for organic plant production. Fertilizer formulations, nutrient availability, and application practices for common organic products are also explained. While the primary focus is on building and maintaining fertile soil, information about how to protect soil and water resources in this context is included. Collins, D. C. Miles, C. Cogger, and R. Koenig. 2013. Pacific Northwest Extension Publication PNW 646.

♣ Inorganic Fertilizers for Home Garden Vegetables and Fruits in Central Washington (PDF-Online). This publication provides gardeners with information on how to read inorganic fertilizer labels and how to determine the need for fertilizer in the garden; inorganic fertilizer recommendations for garden fruits and vegetables; application methods and rates, and further reading resources on inorganic fertilizers. Desta, K., and C. Cogger. 2014. WSU Extension and US Dept. Agriculture. EM070E.

♣ Backyard Composting (PDF-Online). Curious about compost? Composting reduces waste and provides an inexpensive treatment for home gardens and landscapes. Whether you have been composting for years or want to start your first pile, this publication can guide you through the process successfully. Cogger, C., D.M. Sullivan, and A. Bary. 2017. WSU Extension, US Dept. Agriculture. EB1784E.

♣ Using Biosolids in Gardens and Landscapes (PDF-Online). Biosolids are a recyclable organic material produced in municipal wastewater treatment plants that can be used as fertilizer for gardens and landscapes. Class A biosolids meet the strictest pathogen standards, based on federal treatment and monitoring requirements and are the only biosolid available for home garden and landscape use. Research shows that biosolids build soil organic matter, improve soil tilth, and benefit crops under a wide range of conditions by providing nitrogen, phosphorus, and organic matter. Biosolids products are a locally produced and inexpensive source of plant nutrients and soil organic matter. Cogger, C. 2014. WSU Extension. FS 156E.

♣ Phosphorus and Home Lawns: Quick Facts and Recommendations (PDF-Online). Phosphorus (P) is an essential plant nutrient, but it is also a potential pollutant. Phosphorus fertilization helps maintain healthy lawns growing in P-deficient soils, but P runoff into lakes and streams can cause excessive growth of algae—harming water quality and aquatic ecosystems. Stahnke, G., E. Miltner, C. Cogger, S. Collman, J. Glass, M. Ophardt, and P. Tillery. 2012. WSU Extension and US Dept. Agriculture. FS058E.

Cover Crops:

♣ Cover Crops for Home Gardens West of the Cascades (PDF-Online). This WSU fact sheet focuses on choosing the best cover crops for gardens in Washington and Oregon, west of the Cascades. Other topics discussed in this fact sheet include what cover crops are, why grow them, and information on planting rates and dates. Cogger, C., C. Benedict, N. Andrews, and A. McGuire. 2014. WSU Extension. FS 111E.

♣ Cover Crops for Home Gardens East of the Cascades (PDF-Online). This WSU fact sheet focuses on choosing the best cover crops for gardens in Washington and Oregon, east of the Cascades. Other topics discussed in this fact sheet include what cover crops are, why grow them, and information on planting rates and dates. Cogger, C., C. Benedict, N. Andrews, S. Fransen, and A. McGuire. 2014. WSU Extension. FS 117E.

♣ Methods for Successful Cover Crop Management in Your Home Garden (PDF-Online). This fact sheet focuses on methods for managing garden cover crops, including planning, planting, managing nutrients, and terminating plants.  Benedict, C., C. Cogger, and N. Andrews. 2014. WSU Extension. FS 119E.

Other:

♣ Raised Beds: Will They Benefit Your Vegetable Garden? (PDF-Online). Many vegetable gardeners use raised beds, while others successfully grow fruit and vegetables directly in native soil. Which system is best for you? This fact sheet describes the uses of raised beds and weigh benefits and disadvantages so you can decide if they are a worthwhile investment in your garden. The fact sheet also includes some basic tips on raised bed soil preparation and management. Cogger, C.G. 2017. WSU Extension Fact Sheet FS075E.

♣ Growing Food on Parking Strips and in Front Yard Gardens (PDF-Online). Parking strip and front yard vegetable gardens are increasingly popular in urban neighborhoods in Washington State. These locations may be the sunniest spots in the yard, and they offer an opportunity to expand garden space on small lots. These gardens not only provide fresh produce, but they can also be a source of neighborhood pride, bringing beauty to an urban streetscape and introducing neighbors to gardening and home-grown food. When planting a parking strip or front yard garden, it is important to assess the site and investigate any local ordinances that may affect it. It is also important to determine soil quality and environmental impacts, particularly on water quality, as well as safety concerns, such as food and traffic safety. Cogger, C. 2013. WSU Extension. FS 115E.

♣ Reducing Lead Hazard in Gardens and Play Areas (PDF/HTML-Online). This publication is designed to help homeowners evaluate and manage lead hazard in their landscape or garden. It explains how soils get contaminated with lead, how to test soil for lead contamination, and how to reduce exposure to soil lead. Brewer, L.J., D.M. Sullivan, P. Deol, and S.D. Angima. 2016. OSU Extension EC1616.

 

Events and New

Events

 

Compost Facility Operator Training, October

Training and certification for Compost Facility Operators, Managers, and officials involved with Composting. Hands on composting, field trips, examination.

Group of people, long compost pile
Compost Operator Training participants work on a pile.
Small group of people, tractor and trommel separator
Compost Operator Training trommel demonstration.

Clopyralid

Clopyralid in Compost

Overview:

Clopyralid is the common name of a long lived herbicide that kills broad-leaved weeds such as dandelions, clover, and thistle. Contamination of yard debris compost with clopyralid emerged as a problem in Washington State in 2000 and 2001 when it survived the composting process and affected garden plants grown in the compost. Clopyralid has since been banned as a home lawn herbicide, removing the risk of contamination of yard debris compost. Because clopyralid is still registered for use on grass hay and some grain crops, the risk of contamination of some animal manures with clopyralid remains.

Information:

♣ Clopyralid in Compost: Questions and Answers for Gardeners and Farmers in Western Washington (PDF-Online), Cogger, C. 2005. Online Brief.

♣ Clopyralid and Compost: Formulation and Mowing Effects on Herbicide Content of Grass Clippings (Request pdf e-copy). Miltner, E., A. Bary, and C. Cogger. 2004. Compost Science & Utilization. 11(4):289-299.

♣ Bioassay Test for Herbicide Residues in Compost: Protocol for Gardeners and Researchers in Washington State (PDF-Online, draft), 2002. Wash. St. Univ., Wash. Dept. Ecology.

♣ Clopyralid in Turfgrass Clippings: Formulation and Mowing Effects on Dissipation (PDF-Online), Miltner, E., A. Bary, and C. Cogger. 2002. Poster Presented at ASA Annual Meeting, Indianapolis, IN, Nov 2002. Reformatted for printout.

♣ Clopyralid: Garden Demonstration Plots (PDF-Online), Cogger, C., A. Bary, and E. Myhre. 2002. WSU Online Research Brief.

♣ Large Pot Greenhouse Trial with Clopyralid-Sensitive Garden Plants (PDF-Online, Final Report). Bary, A., E. Myhre, and C. Cogger. 2002. WSU Online Research Brief.

♣ WSDA Rule Restricting Use of Clopyralid in Washington (see specifically ♣ WAC16-228-1235, ♣ WAC16-228-12351, ♣ WAC16-228-12352, ♣ 16-228-1237, ♣ 16-228-12371 (♣ link to WSDA main website).

Photos of clopyralid-damaged plants:

♣ Various Plant Species Grown in One Level of Clopyralid (PDF-Online)

♣ Response of Beans to Varying Levels of Clopyralid (PDF-Online)

♣ Rating Scale of Clopyralid Damage in Peas (PDF-Online)

Clopyralid damaged peas.

Andy Bary

Andy Bary

Senior Scientific Assistant, Retired
Department of Crop and Soil Sciences
Washington State University Puyallup

 

Education:

M.S. in Agronomy, Washington State University, 1986.
B.S. in Plant Science, University of Idaho, 1979.
A.A.S. in Agronomy and Environmental Protection, Alfred Agricultural and Technical College, 1977.

Recent Professional Employment:

2021-Retired.
1995-2021: Scientific Assistant, Washington State University – Puyallup.
Conduct research related to grant funded activities in agricultural utilization of different byproducts including biosolids, composts and animal wastes. Responsibilities include research program priorities, development, design, preparation of grant proposals, management of grant budgets, statistical analyses, and supervise field research and time-slip personnel. Communicate with grantors regarding progress and direction of research.

1990-1995: Agricultural Research Technologist, Washington State University – Puyallup.
Assist in development of Cooperative Extension programs in organic byproduct management, soils and water quality. Manage field research on land application of biosolids, animal wastes, and composts. Supervise laboratory and field labor. Conduct on-farm research. Organize and analyze research data using spreadsheets, databases, graphics and statistical computer software.

Recent Professional Activities in Crop Production and Organics Recycling:

Washington Organic Recycling Council. I serve as a board member on an organization of composters, government regulators, local governments and universities promoting advocacy and information relating to organics recycling in Washington.
Northwest Biosolids Management Association. I serve as an advisor to local and state agencies on biosolids land application and utilization in crop production.

Food and Farm Connection Team. A team of western Washington Cooperative Extension agents and specialist. The mission of the team is to enhance sustainable community food and farm systems through education, research and partnerships.

Links:

♣ Soils for Salmon

Pastured Poultry

Pastured Poultry

Overview:

Raising pastured poultry is a simple way to integrate livestock onto small farms. They are suitable for farms that do not currently have livestock, or they can be raised in a system that includes other types of animals.

This page summarizes our experience with small-scale pastured poultry production on our organically certified land at WSU Puyallup from 2005-2012. We began raising pastured broilers with the goal of integrating them into a vegetable-pasture rotation in our organic farming systems experiment.

Methods:

We used small (5’x 10’), lightweight traveling cages for housing the birds on pasture (see design plans below). Each cage held up to 35 birds and contained two feed troughs and two independent watering units. Cages were rolled daily onto fresh pasture using a dolly system. We supplied feed and water to birds as needed once to twice daily. The pasture areas were enclosed with a portable electric fence to provide extra protection from predators.

Chicks were moved from the brooder to the field at 2 to 3 weeks of age, and were slaughtered at 8 weeks (Fast Cornish Cross) to 11 weeks of age (Slow Cornish Cross varieties). Our birds were slaughtered on farm using a mobile slaughtering unit.

Each bird was weighed when moved to the field, at intervals during their life cycle up to the time of slaughter, and after dressing. We also measured daily and total feed supplied to the flock to determine feed conversion. In 2007 and 2008 we participated in a project to study lactic acid as an organic alternative to chlorine bleach for carcass sanitation during processing (see Publications).

We raised Fast Cornish Cross, Kosher King, and Slow Cornish birds in 2005, Fast Cornish Cross in 2006, Freedom Rangers in 2007, and Slow Red Cornish Cross and Fast Cornish Cross in 2008-2009 2011, and Red Freedom Rangers and Fast Cornish Cross in 2012.

Cage Design

♣ Photos and designs of portable poultry cages.

Results:

Bird survival and weight, feed use, and feed conversion are summarized in Tables 1 and 2 below. Fast Cornish Cross chickens had much better feed conversion than the other breeds, but otherwise did not function as well in the pastured poultry environment. This was especially true in 2006, when we lost many birds late in the season because of heart attacks or inability to walk. The Fast Cornish Cross also tended to have more difficulty moving with the cages, especially in the final weeks before slaughter. Feed conversion was lower in the spring of 2005 than in the later trials, likely as a result of not switching from chick grit to hen grit after they were moved to the field. Feed consumption and bird weights were down in 2009 due to a 10 day hot period when birds didn’t eat or gain as much.  In 2012 the Fast Cornish Cross ate more feed than previous years, but didn’t grow as well as previous years.

Publications:

♣ Break-Even Analysis of Small-Scale Production of Pastured Organic Poultry (PDF-Online) and ♣ Excel Spreadsheet for Calculating Costs (Excel Xlsx file-Online). Painter, K., E. Myhre, A. Bary, C. Cogger, and W. Jemmett. 2015. Pacific Northwest Extension Publication PNW 665.

♣ Validation of a 2 Percent Lactic Acid Antimicrobial Rinse for Mobile Poultry Slaughter Operations (PDF-Online). Killinger, K.M., A. Kannan, A.I. Bary, and C.G. Cogger.  2010. J. Food Prot. 73:2079-2083.

Photo of pastured poultry moveable pens showing the previous day's grazed area in the foreground of the cages.
Above-Movable pasture pens.
Photo of pastured poultry, fast growing cornish cross being weighed.
Above-Cornish Cross, final size. Fast growing.
Photo of pastured poultry, slow growing variety, freedom ranger, "Rufus."
Above-Freedom Ranger, final size, hen named “Rufus.” Slow growing.

Table 1. Pastured poultry data summary 2005-2012, fast growing White Cornish Crosses.

NOTES:

  • 2005 (spring) only chick grit was used which affected feed conversion. For following groups we used chick grit in the brooder then hen grit in the field.
  • 2009: very hot period (10 days) when birds didn’t eat/grow much.
  • 2012: Birds ate a lot but Fast CornishX didn’t grow like previous years.
 2005 spring2005 summer20062008200920112012
No. Received Alive817815678767075
No. Slaughtered697512972636766
No. Small Birds (<3lb live weight at slaughter)11100100
Age at Slaughter (weeks)898887.77.6
Average carcass weight (lb)3.95.04.94.64.05.03.8
Total Feed Used (lb)147212932408136387511371291
Feed Used/Bird (lb)21.317.218.718.913.917.019.0
Feed Conversion (lb feed/lb meat)5.53.53.84.13.43.44.9

Table 2. Pastured poultry data summary 2005-2012, slower growing broiler varieties.

NOTES:

  • 2005 (spring) only chick grit was used which affected feed conversion. For following groups we used chick grit in the brooder then hen grit in the field.
  • 2009: very hot period (10 days) when birds didn’t eat/grow much.
 2005 spring2005 summer20072008200920112012
No. Received Alive69978578787477
No. Slaughtered52547577736969
No. Small Birds (<3lb live weight at slaughter)132300000
Age at Slaughter (weeks)10111111111111
Average Carcass Weight (lb)3.43.24.84.13.33.64.2
Total Feed Used (lb)133698518601592127014501690
Feed Used/Bird (lb)25.718.224.820.717.420.423.5
Feed Conversion (lb feed/lb bird)7.65.75.25.15.25.95.7

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Overview of our Program

Soils & Organic Farming Systems

Beginning in 2002, we expanded our focus to organic farming systems, including organic amendments, cover crops, and quality of soils. We are working with an interdisciplinary team studying a range of issues important to small scale, direct-market, and organic agriculture, including nutrient management, food safety, soil quality, weed management, economics, marketing, and on-farm research.

Land Application of Organic Wastes

Many organic wastes contain nutrients and organic matter that can benefit plant growth and soil productivity. Recycling these materials onto land captures nutrients that would otherwise be lost, and helps sustain our resource base. They are also a source of organic matter for soils, building and maintaining soil quality. Organic wastes may contain pathogens and small amounts of toxic materials, which can become pollutants if the materials are not managed properly. Over-application of some organic wastes can result in excessive levels of nutrients in the soil, which can harm crop production or water quality. We study nutrient availability from organic materials, to enable us to determine appropriate rates and timing of applications for crop production. We also evaluate short and long term effects of organic amendments on soil quality in agricultural and urban soils.

Our Goal

The goal of our program is to build soil productivity, support local agriculture, protect water quality, and facilitate recycling of organic wastes, by applying soil science principles to agricultural, development, and waste management issues.