Summary
This field-scale study examined the temporal and spatial variability of stable isotope signatures (δ13C, δ15N) and elemental composition (TC, TN) in agricultural soils to evaluate their utility as sediment source tracers. The research suggests that understanding isotopic and elemental heterogeneity within fields is important for improving the reliability of sediment fingerprinting methods used to identify and monitor erosion sources. The findings have implications for erosion control and sediment quality assessment in farming systems.
UK applicability
The methodology is directly applicable to UK agricultural research, particularly for monitoring soil erosion and sediment transport in mixed farming systems. Results could inform best management practices for reducing sediment losses and tracing contamination sources in UK watersheds.
Key measures
δ13C and δ15N isotope ratios; total carbon (TC) and total nitrogen (TN) concentrations; spatial and temporal variability patterns
Outcomes reported
The study investigated spatial and temporal variability of stable carbon and nitrogen isotope ratios (δ13C, δ15N) and total carbon and nitrogen (TC, TN) concentrations across a field at multiple time points. These soil properties were evaluated as potential fingerprints for tracing the origin of eroded sediment.
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