Agronomic management for phytoremediation

摘要

A phytoremediation approach was accepted for use at a Superfund site in central North Carolina as a supplement to pump-and-treat technology. The site was characterized in order to allow design of an agronomic management program that would optimize the hydraulic function of the hybrid poplars proposed for use in the system. Agronomic and hydrologic parameters that could affect the function of the phytoremediation system were studied. A portion of the system was to be installed in or near thermally treated soils. The efect of thermal treatment on soil properties was considered. Based on preliminary characterization, a poilot planting was designed and installed in May, 1997. A full scale planting was performed in March, 1998 after treated soils had been placed over a portion of the site. Two hybrid poplars (Populus spp.) were used; P. charcowiensis x P. incrassata and P. maximowiczii x P. trichocarpa. Grasses were used as herbaceous ground cover. Results suggest that proper agronomic management can result in increased function of hybrid poplars by accelerating growth, decreasing mortality, protecting against drought, and postponing senescence.