Discovery Farm Demonstration Project

By using a blend of forage crops, scientists at the GFM research farm are looking at how variable root structures can improve filtration to ensure water goes into the soil rather than running off the surface.

“Let’s retain water in the landscape where it makes sense and realize the ecological benefits,” says Weiseth, who also serves as Agriculture Research Chair at Saskatchewan Polytechnic, one of several project partners.

Developing that plan with the Water Security Agency (WSA) focused on eight sloughs. A high-resolution Global Positioning System (GPS) survey revealed topographical and elevation details, all of which were essential for the approval process and the applied research. It was important to understand how the land slopes throughout the fields and how that might impact water movement.

“We really do value the relationship with WSA and the resources that they bring; the technical expertise just to make sure that we’re going through the process properly, that we’re following the proper rules, and guidance for doing this type of a project,” noted Weiseth, who often phoned the North Battleford office and spent many hours in the field with WSA staff.

Surface ditches were constructed to drain eight sloughs, three of which drain in to what has become a permanent wetland. Equipment was installed at the outlet of each ditch to measure water flow and collect samples for water quality. Soil moisture probes continuously and automatically measured moisture from the surface down to 120 centimeters.

In each of these eight mini-watersheds, a different approach is being tested to efficiently use water and nutrients to reduce the amount moving off the land. Variable rate fertilizers, residue management and a forage blend of cover crop are all being tested.

By using a blend of forage crops, scientists at the GFM research farm are looking at how variable root structures can improve filtration to ensure water goes into the soil rather than running off the surface.

“Let’s retain water in the landscape where it makes sense and realize the ecological benefits,” says Weiseth, who also serves as Agriculture Research Chair at Saskatchewan Polytechnic, one of several project partners.

The multi-faceted AWM project draws on some of the collective expertise in the province, among them Dr. Jeff Schoenau, professor of soil science at the University of Saskatchewan. Referring to the 4Rs for fertilizer application – Right Source, Right Rate, Right Time and Right Place – he notes that keeping nutrients on the land for crops means fewer are lost to water.

“These are valuable nutrients for which dollars are spent,” says Schoenau. “There is benefit to everyone from adopting practices that strive to more effectively use the nutrients and not lose them.”