MAPPING AND ALLEVIATING COASTAL SALINITY IN AGRICULTURAL FIELDS USING APPARENT ELECTRICAL CONDUCTIVITY

This integrated research and extension project addresses critical stakeholder concerns about salinization in coastal agricultural fields on the Delmarva Peninsula. Our near-term goal is to determine if mapping techniques that were successfully applied in drier climates can be used to effectively identify the extent and variability of salinity issues in humid, coastal soils where high water tables may falsely present as surface salinity. We will: (1) adapt precision agriculture methods (i.e., electrical conductivity maps, drone imagery, and zone soil sampling) to map soil salinity in humid climates; (2) determine if regional routine agronomic soil tests (e.g., Mehlich 3, CEC) can serve as a substitute for standard soil salinity tests; and (3) develop and deliver education on soil salinity management options and variable rate application methodology. Our long-term goal is to help coastal farmers maintain yields by managing the effects of sea level rise using precision agriculture technologies. Our overarching premise is that providing regional farmers with effective identification and management strategies for salt-affected or "at-risk" soils can protect yields, reduce economic losses, and prolong production of salt-impacted coastal agricultural soils.Results from this project will be shared through one-on-one meetings with cooperating farmers, digital extension outreach outlets (newsletters and blogs), and regional extension conferences and workshops.