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The use of forestland, switchgrass, and other products are currently being explored for their potential as biofuels in Alabama. Management of each of these products has
ramifications on environmental and water quality. Forest management has traditionally been viewed as an overall drain on soil fertility with long term harvesting eventually depleting soil nutrients. However, research has shown that macronutrients can be replenished via precipitation as long as harvesting rotation intervals are not too rapid. Harvesting regimes coupled with best management practices along riparian zones can be implemented to reduce soil export to streams and rivers. Switchgrass has been identified as an excellent biofuel candidate because of its prolific productivity, its resistance to pests, and its ability to retain soils. On the other hand, it is potentially a greater soil nutrient drain than forests and may require fertilization to maintain a long term harvesting regime. Other biofuels being considered include poultry litter which can be burned as an energy source. Traditionally, poultry litter has been disposed of by broadcasting it as a field fertilizer, but when used in excess it may runoff into natural waterways and cause eutrophic conditions down stream. For this
presentation, we will discuss the potential offsets between making biofuel products viable and maintaining environmental and water quality.
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