29 Undergraduate Research, Part II (Posters)

Session showcases undergraduate research. Topics include geoscience-related fields (e.g., resources, hydrology, oceanography, climate, environmental science, geospatial, informatics, health, policy, & education). Undergraduate student/s must be the lead author/s presenters with faculty mentor/s as co-author/s. This session welcomes both poster and oral presentation submissions.

Tuesday, 10 March 2026
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
RCC, Lower Level Hall

Effects of Commercial Sawdust Biochar Amendments on Soil Physical and Chemical Properties in Bareroot-Grown Loblolly Pine Seedlings

Paper number: 29-17
Program: Technical Sessions
Time: 9:00 AM – 9:00 AM

Authors

Abstract

Production tree seedling nurseries use large volumes of nitrogen (N) fertilizer to sustain the region’s use of wood products. Over-application of N fertilizers can increase nitrate (NO3-) leaching, causing economic losses and environmental harm. To address this issue, forest nurseries are exploring ways to grow seedlings with less NO3-. The Virginia Department of Forestry (VDF) produces over 25 million seedlings annually for commercial sales, and together we evaluated how soil amendments may enhance fertilizer use efficiency and reduce N leaching. The present study assesses the effect of sawdust biochar amendments on loblolly pine seedling growth, soil physical properties (bulk density, porosity, particle size distribution) and NO3- leaching. The study was conducted at two state-owned nurseries (Sussex, sandy soils; and Augusta, VA, silty soils) using a split plot experimental design with fertilizer application rates as a whole-plot factor and biochar application rates as the subplot factor. We assessed how these factors and their interactions affected soil NO3- leaching, bulk density, porosity, and particle-size distribution. Each treatment plot was equipped with ion-exchange resin bags at 43.5 cm during the growing season to assess NO3- leached from the root zone using the Vanadium (III) reduction method. Soil cores were taken to determine bulk density, porosity, and the amount of NO3- remaining in the root zone. Preliminary results show the soil has a silty texture, suggesting low potential NO3- leaching. Findings of the present study will help guide fertilizer use in forest nurseries by incorporating soil amendments to reduce costs and minimize environmental impacts.

Geological Society of America Abstracts with Programs. Vol. 58, No. 1

doi: 10.1130/abs/2026SE-411777

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