Modeling N leaching into drainage water following the soil application of fertilizers

The MANIMEA (MAnurial NItrogen Management: Environmental Aspects) model is a one-dimensional dynamic model that simultaneously simulates N transformations (volatilization, net mineralization-immobilization, and denitrification), N transport (runoff and leaching), plant uptake, and adsorption in homogeneous, unsaturated soils. The simulated system is divided into two components: the applied waste layer and the soil. The model describes the transformation processes occurring in both components separately. It is also capable of accounting for both micro and macroporous flows. In addition, the simulation can be done for time steps shorter than 1 day. The accuracy of the simulation was enhanced by taking into account moisture and temperature variation and distribution in the soil. The model was developed to be interactive and user-friendly and was constructed on a modular basis using Microsoft FORTRAN PowerStation(R). This model can be used as a management tool to predict the fate and behavior of N following the application of organic and mineral fertilizers to soils. However, it can also be used to gain further understanding of nitrogen processes for research and teaching purposes.