PO 57: Explain the concept and purpose of the P index and list the four score management categories of the P index.

The P index is an indicator of potential P loss, designed to identify fields at high risk for P runoff by combining sources of P (soil, fertilizer, manure) with factors contributing to runoff (distance to streams, erosion, flooding frequency, drainage, etc).

The four score management categories are: low, medium, high, and very high.  Actual scores will differ for states in the Northeast (and nationally), but management guidance in each for the four categories will be the same.  State-specific P index calculations can be obtained from the local Land Grant University.

For example: NY P index scores, vulnerability rankings, and management implications