Veris pH data vs. grid and composite soil sampling

             
            Tucker  
             
Project Title              
  Veris pH Meter vs. Grid & Composite Soil Sampling
 
             
Investigator 1       Investigator 2      
  Servi-Tech, Inc.
Kenny Tucker
409 S Workman Ave.
Lyons, KS 67554
  Veris Technologies
Eric Lund
601 N Broadway
Salina, KS 67401
   
   
   
Phone       Phone      
  620-257-8488       785-825-1978    
Email       Email      
  ktucker66@cox.net     lunde@veristech.com  
             
Statement of Problem            
               
We would like to compare the pH results of the Veris pH meter versus 2.5 acre grids and composite soil sampling using laboratory analysis.
             
Project Objectives            
               
To determine the most cost-effective sampling method from which we can make management decisions about lime application on no-till soils. We will compare composite samples, grid samples and Veris results on  sandy loam and loamy sand soil types.
             
Methodology              
               
Using the Veris pH/CEC machine, 80 acres will be measured. The entire ¼ Section will be composite sampled and grid sampled. The Veris machine will of course only give a pH reading, but all other samples will be analyzed for pH, buffer pH, O.M., NO3, P, K, S, Zn. While all of these nutrients will not benefit the liming decision, we felt it was wise to test for them since we are going to have so much labor involved anyway. Results will be statistically analyzed and compared. If possible yield map data will be collected to overlay and compare to other values to develop correlations and to help determine profitability of each method. The field being studied had 2-ton, 1-ton, & 0-ton Ag Lime Strips applied in November of 2000, which will help provide variability in the pH and help determine the most profitable liming rates for these soils. Planned crop is dryland milo on 30” rows.
             
Expected outcome / Benefit to KARA          
We expect to learn which sampling method is most profitable to producers, and how accurate the Veris pH meter is on very sandy soils. KARA members would have first benefit from that information.