The impact of waterfowl foraging on the decomposition of rice straw: mutual benefits for rice growers and waterfowl

• DOI: 10.1046/j.1365-2664.2000.00539.x
• Publication Date: 2003-03-12T08:22:07Z
• Authors: J.A. Bird; G.S. Pettygrove; J.M. Eadie
• Keywords: Anas; Paddy field

1. Recent legislation in California, USA, has restricted traditional open‐field burning of rice straw residues, leading farmers to adopt alternative methods disposal such as post‐harvest flooding fields. These changes may benefit wildlife because winter‐flooded fallow fields provide foraging habitat migratory waterfowl. In turn, the activity waterfowl help increase decomposition, providing a reciprocal farmers. We examined effects on decomposition and nitrogen mineralization following harvest flooded soil. 2. Experimental plots (25 m 2 ) were established silty clay soil subjected two treatments: wet‐rolled or untilled. Mallard ducks Anas platyrhynchos placed one‐half experimental plots, split‐plot design, for 3‐week period, at density equivalent 33 birds ha −1 over season 180 days approximate regional abundance data. 3. Waterfowl increased residual surface by 78% untilled 18% compared with respective unforaged plots. Average diameter foraged was reduced one‐third that 4. field tillage (N) concentrations residue remaining end winter period. Below‐ground organic not affected foraging, indicating did incorporate straw. There no apparent additions carbon (C) N result activity. 5. conclude can substantially flooded, fallow, Accordingly, producers should consider agronomic practices attract waterfowl, flooding, maximize residue. At upper regionally observed densities (at near alleviate need autumn tillage. Shallow will also important aiding wetland management conservation efforts Central Valley California. 6. results an example how mutually beneficial solution be achieved provides needed waterbird while concomitantly alleviating agricultural problem.