Ground and Surface Water Research
Forecasted
Ground and Surface Water Research supports researchers studying how fertilizers and related agricultural products affect Oregon waters, generating field-level findings to guide water quality protection.
Funder: Oregon Department of Agriculture
Due Dates (Anticipated): May 2027 (Application deadline)
Funding Amounts: 2026 RFP: up to $70,000 total annually; single- and multi-year projects considered
Summary: Supports field-level research on fertilizer, amendment, mineral, and lime interactions with Oregon groundwater and surface water quality.
Key Information: Research must occur primarily in Oregon, with findings transferable to agricultural advisors and product users.
Description
The Oregon Department of Agriculture (ODA), with advice from the Fertilizer Research Committee, supports research and development addressing how fertilizers, agricultural amendments, agricultural minerals, and lime products interact with groundwater or surface water. The program emphasizes field-level research that advances water quality protection in Oregon and produces findings transferable to industry advisors, consultants, and end users.
Research should reflect typical Oregon soils, crops, and agricultural practices, using Oregon-registered products at typical agronomic rates. Priorities include evaluating best management practices, nutrient losses, and groundwater protection through replicated field data and measurable environmental outcomes. Integration across projects, sites, and objectives is encouraged. Since 1990, the program has provided more than $1.9 million for over 90 projects involving a wide variety of Oregon crops.
