The influence of meatworks effluents on soil and plant composition

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Abstract
Effluent irrigation schemes operated by three meatworks have been investigated both for changes induced in soils and for effects on plant composition. The effluents contained significant amounts of nitrogen, chlorine, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, and sulphur. Irrigation of pasture with organic-rich effluents for 15 years raised nitrogen levels and increased base saturation of the topsoils. Potassium and sodium accounted for the main increases in exchangeable bases. Analysis of white clover leaves for 23 elements showed that irrigation with effluent raised the levels of nitrogen, potassium, sulphur, and phosphorus, but lowered levels of manganese, copper, and strontium. In ryegrass, effluent irrigation raised the levels of nitrogen and potassium, but lowered levels of boron, manganese, and strontium.

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