At the 2013 Alberta Soil Science Workshop, Dr. Eric Bremer described testing and use of Plant Root Simulator (PRSTM) probes for measuring soil nutrient availability (NO3-N, K, Ca, Mn). Both bench test results that illustrate the dynamics of ion exchange and field tests are described. The PRSTM probes are useful tools for site monitoring for agronomists and land reclamation specialists if these ion exchange dynamics in relation to soil moisture are understood.
Dr. Eric Bremer is head of research and development at Western Ag Innovations. He has more than 20 years experience in soil fertility research in western Canada and the Netherlands.
