Natural Resources.

Various aspects of water use and quality are being investigated (water requirements in citrus, pollution from nitrate and pesticides) and of the soil (fertility and erosion).  Studies on forestry shrubs and weed control are being performed. An additional work consists of running the Agro-meteorological Station, that is a part of the Meteorological Network of the National Institute of Meteorology.

Pollution

There is a work team studying the environmental impact of agricultural practices. At present, nitrate leaching, in connection with nitrogen fertilizer is being investigated in citrus and in vegetable crops, as well as the herbicide and pesticide water pollution.
Soil fertility and conservation
Improvement of soil fertility is studied in conventional, and ecological practices. Regarding soil conservation, the components of the habitat (soil, climate and vegetation) are examined, and also the multiplication of native species, planting and establishment of nursery plant methods, and soil reclamation methods.
Irrigation
The team working in irrigation is studying the water requirements of citrus and the effects of deficit irrigation in critical periods on yield and quality, particularly with localized irrigation. A number of measurement indicators are being investigated on plant and soil to determine the appropriate timing and amount of irrigation.
 

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Research lines in natural resources.

Pollution
    - Nitrate leaching.
    - Water pollution by pesticides.
    - Reduction in use of herbicides in vegetable crops.
Soil Fertility and Conservation
    - Soil management and fertilization in sustainable and ecological crops.
    - Production of alternative substrates other than peat.
    - Fight against water erosion in abandoned soils.
Irrigation
    - Response of citrus to deficit irrigation.
    - Water requirement determination in fruit tree crops.2

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