Analyses of runoff and sediment were made from 33 instrumented plots at the Midwest Claypan Experiment Station. Nitrogen compounds, phosphates and some specific pesticides were determined where fertilizer treatments, cropping and cultural practices varied. The results show the losses of nitrogen and phosphate compounds that may be expected under practical field conditions on soils that have a minimum slope and where percolation rates are slow. Results from three seasons are reported. In all three years rainfall during the critical period, where there was minimum ground cover, was below long time averages. Optimum fertilization treatments that produced a vigorous canopy, or a good residue cover reduced both erosion and nutrient losses. In none of the three years did the optimum use of fertilizer or pesticides produce large losses of chemicals. The results point to systems of soil management that will produce optimum yields of grain crops with a minimum contamination of receiving water by chemicals.

"July 1974." "Project officer, Arthur Burks, Southeast Environmental Research Laboratory." U.S. G.P.O. sales statement incorrect in publication. Includes bibliographical references (pages 62-64). Prepared for Office of Research and Development, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency