Paul Voroney

Project 20-003

Dr Paul Voroney is a professor and reseracher at the University of Guelph, School of Enviromental Sciences. - UofG bio 

Paul's general areas of interest include: Soil Biology and Biochemistry, Biogeochemical cycling of soil carbon, nitrogen and phosphorous, Soil management, Organic waste management, Organic agriculture.

The long-term objective of Dr. Voroney's research program is to study the effects of soil management and cropping practices on the dynamics of soil organic matter constituents. He uses tracer techniques (13C, 14C and 15N) to assess the effects of tillage, waste management and cropping on rates of decomposition of plant residues, formation of stable soil organic matter (soil humus) and on soil fertility. In addition to studies of the soil microbial biomass (C and N), which is an important labile pool of soil organic matter as well as an agent of organic matter transformations, he is developing methods to study other components to soil organic matter.

Specifically, his research expertise is in organic matter decomposition, with applications in agriculture, horticulture and industry (eg. industrial landfarms and composting operations). His basic research has examined the effects of management practices on rates of organic matter decomposition in field soils using tracer techniques, 14C, 13C and 15N; he was the leader of a research group funded by ICST from 1987-89 (now ESTAC) to enhance biodegradation of oily wastes produced by the petrochemical industry. Paul also has a patent describing management of readily decomposable carbon-rich organic wastes in soil in conjunction with plant production. This method is used widely by the waste management industry as an inexpensive technology for disposal of non-hazardous organic wastes.

Project 20-003: Advancing 4R Nutrient Stewardship for Sustainable Use of Phosphorus from Pig Manure Slurry for Crop Production