Main Research Projects

Worker pours soil or compost from a bucket onto a field plot near irrigation tubing and scattered containers.

Worker spreads material from an orange bucket across a field with equipment and markers in the background.

Rows of healthy corn plants growing in a field under a clear blue sky.

Chicken Litter Application Effect on Soil Health and Corn Yield

This experiment is a three-year study conducted at the Macon Ridge Research Station (Winnsboro, LA). The objective of this research is to quantify the effects of chicken litter application on soil health and corn yield, with particular emphasis on its potential to increase soil organic matter and improve overall soil fertility. Through this work, we aim to provide science-based evidence supporting the use of organic amendments, such as chicken litter, to enhance soil health and promote resilient and productive corn systems.

Four containers holding granular fertilizer or seed treatment resting on bare soil.

Workers plant crops using a tractor and row planter in a large tilled field.

Close-up of soil furrow with small blue seed pellets and planting equipment wheels above.

Phosphorus and Potassium Management in ThryvOn and non-ThryvOn cotton

This experiment is a collaborative effort with Dr. Dawson Kerns (Field Crops Entomologist) and is conducted at the Macon Ridge Research Station (Winnsboro, LA). The objective of this study is to evaluate current phosphorus (P) and potassium (K) fertilizer recommendations for ThryvOn and non-ThryvOn cotton varieties. Through this research, we aim to provide science-based information on the fertilizer requirements of new ThryvOn cotton varieties.

Gloved hands holding soil mixed with feathers for analysis in a field setting.

Close-up of dry soil surface with scattered feathers and small debris.

Soybean field with measurement device and clipboard used for plant health data collection.

Chicken Litter Application Effect on Soil Health and Soybean Yield

This experiment is a three-year collaborative effort with Dr. Saulo Castro and Dr. David Moseley, conducted at the Dean Lee Research and Extension Center (Alexandria, LA) and at the Macon Ridge Research Station (Winnsboro, LA). The goal of this study is to demonstrate and quantify the benefits of using chicken litter in crop fields, particularly its potential to enhance soil organic matter and overall soil fertility. Through this research, we aim to provide science-based evidence supporting the use of organic amendments such as chicken litter to improve soil health and promote resilient soybean yields.

Two people measure and prepare materials beside a utility vehicle in an open agricultural field.

Rows of young corn plants growing in a field with power lines and buildings in the background under cloudy skies.

Long-term Effects of Lime Application on Phosphorus and Potassium Availability in Corn-Soybean Rotation

This experiment is a collaborative effort with Dr. Brenda Tubana and is conducted at the Macon Ridge Research Station (Winnsboro, LA). The trial was originally established in 2004 and is the longest-running experiment currently maintained at the LSU AgCenter. The objective of this study is to evaluate the effects of lime application on soil phosphorus (P) and potassium (K) availability in corn and soybean systems. Through this research, we aim to provide science-based information on the importance of accurately assessing and managing soil pH.

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