Tillage translocation and tillage erosion in the complex upland landscapes of southwestern Ontario, Canada

Tillage translocation and tillage erosion were measured throughout the topographically complex landscapes of two fields in the upland region of southwestern Ontario. Translocation of soil by tillage was measured by labelling plots of soil with chloride and measuring the tracer's forward displacement in response to single passes by four tillage implements (mouldboard plough, chisel plough, tandem disc and field cultivator). The change in translocation within the landscape was used to measure tillage erosion. All four implements were erosive. A relationship between tillage translocation and slope gradient was observed; however, the variability in translocation could not be explained by slope gradient alone. Slope curvature was responsible for some translocation through the planning action of tillage implements. Tillage depth and speed were subject to considerable discontinuous and inconsistent manipulation by the operator in response to changing topographic and soil conditions. Tillage speed decreased by as much as 60% during upslope tillage and increased by as much as 30% during downslope tillage, relative to that on level ground. Tillage depth decreased by as much as 20% and increased by as much as 30%, relative to that on level ground. This manipulation is typical for tillage in complex landscapes and was presumed largely responsible for the variability in the results. The manipulation of tillage depth and speed are affected by the tractor-implement match and the responsiveness of the tillage operator.