Buying farmland -- What can I expect from the soil?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on the considerations for purchasing a 25-acre farm in Georgia, previously used as pasture for over 35 years without soil amendments. The plan includes soil testing at Clemson University and implementing a recovery strategy involving lime, chicken, and horse manure, followed by planting cover crops. Concerns about historical soil depletion and arsenic contamination from past agricultural practices, particularly from cotton and tobacco farming, are highlighted. Engaging with local agricultural extension services is recommended for thorough soil and groundwater assessments before making a purchase.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of soil testing procedures, specifically at Clemson University.
  • Knowledge of soil amendment techniques, including the use of lime and organic manures.
  • Familiarity with cover cropping practices for soil recovery.
  • Awareness of historical agricultural practices and their impact on soil health, particularly regarding arsenic contamination.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research soil testing methods and interpret results from Clemson University.
  • Learn about effective soil amendment strategies for pasture recovery.
  • Investigate cover cropping techniques suitable for Georgia's climate.
  • Consult local agricultural extension services regarding soil and groundwater contamination risks.
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for prospective farmland buyers, agricultural consultants, and anyone involved in sustainable farming practices, particularly in regions with a history of intensive agriculture.

martha summers
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I am considering buying a 25 acre farm in Georgia. Has been used as pasture for horses for 35+ years, no amendments, no lime, no anything added but manure droppings. Plan to have tested at Clemson - but am I crazy to think if it is as exhausted as it appears, that we can take 1-2 seasons, lime, add chicken, horse manures, allow it to rest - plant with cover crop and then till that in - that it will be able to recover and become healthy, sustaining pasture land for grazing livestock, perhaps a dozen at most cattle or sheep or combination thereof?
 
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It is feasible. @Tom.G gave you carrying capacity information. That is a start.

Farmland in your area usually has a checkered past. In the early 1800's the main crops were tobacco and cotton. The agricultural practices back then amounted to deplete the soils, then move West. Plus, if cotton was grown there, weed control amounted to arsenic sulfate. Arsenic residues do not "go away" because Arsenic is a chemical element, it cannot become something else less toxic. So, be sure to consult the county agent and see if Arsenic testing is warranted. There might be a concern if you plan on producing vegetables on any scale from home use to marketing the produce. Wells are a problem too and are a source of arsenic if you irrigate.

You really want to contact these guys before you buy:
http://extension.uga.edu/county-offices/bartow/anr.html

Ask about use history and soil and groundwater contaminants like arsenic.
 
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