Influence of liquid swine slurry on soil quality and water infiltration

Liquid swine slurry (LSS) can improve soil quality when applied to agricultural areas. However, when applied indiscriminately, it can cause contamination of soil and water resources. In this context, this study aimed to evaluate the effects on chemical, physical, and water attributes of the soil, resulting from the application of LSS, as well as on water infiltration. In this research, two areas were evaluated, namely: area 1 (treatment 1), where LSS is not applied; and area 2 (treatment 2), with LSS applied to the soil for a period of three years, twice a year. For the physical characterization of the soil, data on moisture, particle density, soil density, and total porosity were analyzed. For the chemical characterization of the soil, analyses were performed for potential hydrogen (pH), organic matter, aluminum hydride (H+Al), phosphorus (P), potassium (K), calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg), sodium (Na), sum of bases (SB), cation exchange capacity (CEC), and base saturation (V%). A double-ring infiltrometer was employed in order to determine water infiltration into the soil. Treatment 2 showed a higher average water infiltration velocity, in addition to higher levels of organic matter, moisture, and K. However, this treatment resulted in a more acidic soil, with a lower pH and a higher value of H+Al when compared to treatment 1. Significant statistical differences were found between the two treatments for pH, H+Al, K, SB, V, Mg, and organic matter. It can be concluded that the application of LSS in the soil contributes to improving soil quality.