Practical Applications of Agricultural Gypsum to Improve Soil and Water Quality.

Observations from ten years of experience working in the field to assist growers using agricultural gypsum will be shared.  The presentation will highlight the potential impact of using gypsum to help farmers address soil and water quality concerns, including nutrient runoff.

The presentation will discuss the benefits of using gypsum to balance soil chemistry and improve soil structure.  The author will share observations of results from using gypsum, including

• Water infiltration response: less runoff, erosion and ponding;
• Reductions in nutrient runoff to watersheds;
• Improved soil structure: looser soils with less compaction, crusting.

Case studies from farms where gypsum has been used to remediate tight clay soils and thereby improve environmental impact will be presented.

The author will describe application methods, rates, use guidelines, costs and other agronomic considerations for using gypsum in agriculture. The presentation will provide details about commercial gypsum product specs, including chemical analysis, specific gravity, bulk density, pH, particle size and other technical data.

An overview of Gypsoil’s business model, including its growing distribution network in the Midwest, Southeast and Delta, will be presented.