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Updated: Jan 20, 2026

Laboratory-determined Phosphorus Flux from Lake Sediments as a Measure of Internal Phosphorus Loading
Published on: March 6, 2014
County, subregional and regional phosphorus data derived from the net anthropogenic nitrogen/phosphorus inputs
Dennis P Swaney1, Robert W Howarth1
1Cornell University, USA.
This study quantifies phosphorus in US crop production and agricultural inputs, including phosphorus use efficiency (PUE) and Net Anthropogenic Phosphorus Input (NAPI) from 1987-2012. The findings provide crucial data for understanding regional phosphorus dynamics and management.
Area of Science:
- Agricultural Science
- Environmental Science
- Soil Science
Background:
- Phosphorus is a critical nutrient for crop production but its excessive input can lead to environmental issues.
- Understanding agricultural phosphorus dynamics is essential for sustainable agriculture and environmental protection.
- Estimates of phosphorus use efficiency (PUE) and Net Anthropogenic Phosphorus Input (NAPI) are vital for assessing agricultural impacts.
Purpose of the Study:
- To estimate phosphorus content in crop production across the contiguous United States.
- To calculate phosphorus use efficiency (PUE) and agricultural phosphorus inputs.
- To provide Net Anthropogenic Phosphorus Input (NAPI) estimates and related data at multiple scales.
Main Methods:
- Data were derived from USDA agricultural census and US population census data.
- Estimates were calculated using version 3.1 of the NANI/NAPI calculator toolbox.
- Data were analyzed for 6 agricultural census years between 1987 and 2012.
Main Results:
- Estimates of phosphorus content, PUE, and agricultural phosphorus inputs are provided for county, sub-regional, and regional scales.
- Net Anthropogenic Phosphorus Input (NAPI) data are presented for the contiguous United States.
- The data cover the period from 1987 to 2012, reflecting changes in phosphorus management.
Conclusions:
- The study provides comprehensive data on agricultural phosphorus dynamics in the US.
- These estimates are valuable for researchers, policymakers, and stakeholders involved in phosphorus management.
- The data can inform strategies for improving phosphorus use efficiency and mitigating environmental risks.
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