​​​Impacts of Subsurface Drainage in Corn-Soybean Systems

August 2010 | 32 min., 29 sec.
by Matt Helmers
Iowa State University

Summary

​This presentation will help consultants, growers, and other practitioners in the Midwest region increase their understanding of subsurface drainage and factors to consider when planning or evaluating the need for a subsurface drainage system. Specifically, the impacts of drainage on water movement, crop production, and nitrate-nitrogen loss will be described. In addition, factors to consider related to drain spacing and sizing will be described. 

About the Presenter

Matt HelmersMatt Helmers is an Associate Professor and Extension Agricultural Engineer in the Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering at Iowa State University. Dr. Helmers is a native Iowan and received his PhD from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. His research and extension focus at Iowa State is in the areas of water quality and water resources management. In particular, he is studying water quality effects of agricultural best management practices including strategic placement and design of buffer systems and methods to improve water quality in tile drained landscapes.​

Contact Information:
Email: mhelmers@iastate.edu

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