Spatial variability and economic and environmental consequences of agricultural acidification of soils in the province of Warmia and Mazury

Abstract

The aim of this study has been to identify the spatial variability in the acidification of soils and the liming needs as well as the soil availability of fertiliser components in the Province of Warmia and Mazury (województwo warmińsko-mazurskie). The soil spatial variability has been analysed according to the division into administrative districts. The choice of this spatial division pattern was
justified by the availability of data and the research subject. The data were obtained from Reports on the Environmental Conditions in the Province of Warmia and Mazury, the database of the Regional Agricultural Chemical Station in Olsztyn and from the Programme for Environmental Protection in the Province of Warmia and Mazury until 2020. The research results showed large differences between the districts, which were mostly due to natural conditions. Because of the high demand for nutrients,
it would be advisable to prepare fertilisation plans and to adhere to Good Agricultural Practice recommendations, as this would control the causes and alleviate the consequences of soil acidification induced by farming.