Analysis of PCNB in Leachate from the Coeur d'Alene Resort Golf Course Floating Green (2003)

William J. Johnston & Charles T. Golob, Department of Crop and Soil Sciences, Washington State University

Summary
Pentachloronitrobenzene (PCNB) is a fungicide used to control turf diseases that has been found in well and/or groundwater, thus raising concern of its use. This study helps to understand the fate of PCNB through leaching when applied to golf courses by measuring the monthly concentration of the chemical in leachate from a sand-based golf green and assessing the effect of water volume on PCNB leaching.

Results

• No PCNB was detected in any of the monthly leachate samples.
• PCA (a breakdown product of PCNB) was detected in essentially all monthly leachate samples.
• The volume of water applied did not affect the level of PCA detected.

Characterization of Leaching at the Coeur d'Alene Golf Club Floating Green (2000)

William J. Johnston, Charles T. Golob, and Eric D. Miltner, Washington State University

Conclusions

1. This study showed that N fertilization of sand-based turf posed little potential for significant groundwater contamination when healthy turf was maintained.
2. Low N leachate concentrations, combined with high leaf tissue (clippings) N, suggested efficient N uptake by the plant and a low potential for negative environmental impact.
3. N concentrations obtained from microlysimeters placed in the green were correlated with results obtained from the whole-green system; however, since concentration varied with location, placement of microlysimeters needed to be considered.
4. Microlysimeters may be a tool to economically monitor N concentrations to aid in implementation of best management practices for sand-based turf.