Reactions of Phosphate in Soils: Recent Research by TVA

The reactions of phosphate in soils constitute an area of research at once intriguing in its complexity and stimulating in its potential for practical benefits to agriculture. 1 speak firsthand of the enthusiasm that this area of research engenders in its intimates. For this opportunity to share my enthusiasm and to promote the exchange of ideas about phosphate-soil reactions, I am grateful to you, my hosts, and to TVA, my sponsor.

The work that I shall review represents a team effort by investigators in the Fundamental Research Branch and the Soils and Fertiliser Research Branch of TVA’s Office of Agricultural and Chemical Development. I shall cite the original publications of the individual investigators ; in addition, I here express my appreciation for the use of their findings and for other invaluable assistance they have given me in the preparation of this review.

Of major importance in this program of research was the foresight and long-range planning of Dr. Kelly L. Elmore, Chief of the Fundamental Research Branch. His thought-provoking ideas and his persistence in this field contributed much toward progress of the work.