Researcher
418 643-2380
ext 650
Associate Researcher
418 643-2380
ext 406
A number of studies, as well as comments from regional extension agents and producers, indicate that the soil on Québec farms has deteriorated. Since the inventory on soil degradation was released in 1990, no studies have been done that can give us an idea of the current state of Québec’s agricultural soils.
MAPAQ therefore wishes to examine and document current soil conditions to guide its actions and help it set priorities.
The project consists of evaluating soil degradation based on representative samples taken in Québec’s main soil regions and parent materials. Seventy-one series, including the most commonly cultivated soils, are being replicated six times, for a total of 426 plots. Pedological, biological, physical, and chemical properties of the soils are being examined and compared to those of soils that have not been disturbed or degraded. As far as possible, the same sites as in the 1990 inventory are being used in order to evaluate changes in soil health since that time.
From 2017 to 2022
Project duration
Field crops, Fruit production, Market gardening
Activity areas
Soil health, Laboratory analyzes, Ecosystem protection
Services
This major project will help ensure soil productivity, while maintaining the many functions of soil required for a healthy ecosystem.
Ministère de l'Agriculture, des Pêcheries et de l'Alimentation du Québec
The project compared the nitrogen uptake effects of green manure crops grown for a full season, in association with a main crop, or after it is harvested.
Researchers: Aubert Michaud Marc-Olivier Gasser Maryse Leblanc
Demonstration project to showcase the ability of undersown clover cover crops to reduce nitrogen fertilizer requirements in crops.
Researcher: Marc-Olivier Gasser
IRDA—in its capacity as the authorized representative tasked with revising the MAPAQ fertilization reference charts—will plan, coordinate, and monitor all activities involved in updating these charts.
Researcher: Christine Landry