Areas of Research

	Soil & Water & Enviromental Sceince - Charles A. Sanchez
	The primary objective of this program is to improve fertilization and irrigation efficiencies for vegetables and citrus produced in the southwest desert. Work involves evaluation of soil testing and tissue testing as diagnostic tools for predicting and assessing the fertilizer requirements of vegetables. Both traditional laboratory test and quick test are being evaluated. We have also evaluated various reflectance technologies, including digital analysis of aerial photographs.
Research also involves evaluation of fertilizer placement, timing and use of controlled release fertilizers as "Best Management Practices" for vegetables. Work is being conducted to evaluate irrigation management practices and fertilization and irrigation combination which minimize nitrate leaching and optimize crop yield and quality. Studies are also being conducted to develop effective salt management strategies for desert vegetables.