Grassland Fertilization: Watch the Ecological Tipping Point
- Samantha Liu
- Jul 9
- 1 min read
A joint INRAE–CNRS study of 150 temperate grasslands identifies a critical threshold: above 80 kg N/ha/year of nitrogen, functional biodiversity collapses, endangering essential ecosystem services like carbon storage, water purification, forage production, and soil health.
Two Distinct Zones: before and after 80 kg N
Below this level: biodiversity declines, but grassland productivity remains stable.
Above it: diversity collapses, dominance by a few grass species, stagnated biomass, excessive nutrient runoff, and vulnerability to drought.
Why This Matters
Ecosystem services are at risk: carbon storage, water filtration, soil stability, and durable forage all decline.
Operational & financial risks increase: degraded soils require costly inputs, pollution fines, and weaken resilience to extreme weather.
Future regulations are likely—nitrogen application limits or restrictions could emerge soon.
Opportunities for Agriculture
Optimizing fertilization by staying near but below critical nitrogen levels can balance productivity and sustainability.
Ecosystem value: preserving diversity secures forage quality, resilience, and brand reputation.
Market differentiation: eco-conscious fertilization methods support RSE and organic certifications.
The study highlights a measurable nitrogen threshold where grasslands fail to deliver vital ecosystem services. Proactive management is key to safeguarding resilience, compliance, and profits.
Call to action:
Act now to safeguard your agricultural outputs and public image—contact us to co-create biodiversity-aware nutrient management strategies.