EFFECTS OF SOIL COMPACTION AND TILLAGE SYSTEMS ON UPTAKE AND LOSSES OF NUTRIENTS

In the framework of research on the environmental consequences of soil compaction, the impact of soil compaction and tillage systems on upta ke and losses of nutrients, in particular nitrogen, are discussed. Evi dence is presented to indicate interactive relationships between the a mount of soil compaction, root growth, soil water and soil aeration st atus, and nutrient supply and uptake by plants. The importance of soil structure and pore size distribution in influencing the transport of nutrients in compacted soil is illustrated. Emphasis is given to the n egative effects of soil compaction on components of the environment du e to nutrient leaching, surface runoff and gaseous losses to the atmos phere.