NAMS Research Symposium 2021

Title of Trace Metal Bioavailability in New Jersey Vineyard Soils

Presentation:

Author Names Hartman, Abigail; Hallagan, Jessica

(Last, First):

Program(s): Environmental Science

Abstract (Not New Jersey houses a burgeoning vineyard industry due to its acidic and
to Exceed 250 well-drained soils. It is currently the seventh-leading domestic wine producing
words)**: state in the American Viticulture Area. Unfortunately, many vineyards are at
risk of trace metal contamination due to their proximity to major roadways.
Metals commonly sourced from vehicle emissions, roadway materials, and
storm water runoff can easily mobilize through well-drained soils. This work
focuses on lead (Pb), a common contaminant found in roadway soils and factors
that influence its bioavailability to grapevines (Vitis vinifera). Typically, Pb is
adsorbed onto soils and tightly held for long durations. However, phosphate
fertilizers and other soil amendment additions can solubilize Pb and increase its
bioavailability. Soil and grapes were sampled from linear transects established
at a vineyard located in the NJ Pine Barrens neighboring a trafficked roadway.
Soil samples were collected (depth: 0–20 cm) at 5 points located along
transects: nearest to roadways, in between grapevines and roadways, and 3
points along rows of grapevines. Soluble Pb was extracted from soil samples
using deionized water and samples were shaken. Grape samples were digested
for Total Pb in nitric acid and analyzed using flame atomic absorption
spectroscopy (FAAS). Simple linear regression was employed to identify a
correlation between soil Pb content, roadway proximity, and grape Pb content.
Future work will examine soil applications of material to sequester trace metals
of concern.

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Faculty Mentor(s): Dr. Jessica Hallagan