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Data from: Development of PLEAD: a database containing event-based runoff P loadings from agricultural fields

Published by Agricultural Research Service | Department of Agriculture | Catalog Last Checked: May 05, 2026 at 11:47 PM | Dataset Last Updated: November 21, 2025
The P Loss in runoff Events from Agricultural fields Database (PLEAD) is a compilation of event-based, field-scale dissolved and/or total P loss runoff loadings from agricultural fields collected at various research sites located in the US Heartland and Southern US. The database also includes runoff and erosion rates; soil test P; tillage practices; planting and harvesting rates and practices; fertilizer application rate, method, and timing; manure application rate, method, and timing; and livestock grazing density and timing. In total, over 1800 individual runoff events – ranging in duration from 0.4 to 97 hr – have been included in the database. Event runoff P losses ranged from less than 0.05 to 1.3 and 3.0 kg P/ha for dissolved and total P, respectively. The data contained in this database have been used in multiple research studies to address important modeling questions relevant to P management planning. We provide these data to encourage additional studies by other researchers. Resources in this dataset:Resource Title: PLEAD Database - Excel. File Name: PLEAD_2018-11-16.xlsxResource Description: Includes data spreadsheets for: Land Use, Soil Data, Soil Chem Data, Inorganic P Application, Grazing Data, Organic P Application, Tillage, Irrigation, Planting, Harvesting, Runoff Data, Sampling Info, Runoff Collection Notes, Daily Weather Data, Weather Stations, Other Notes, Contact Info.Resource Title: PLEAD Database Data Dictionary. File Name: PLEAD_data_dictionary.csvResource Description: Defines the column headers/variables, units, and data type represented in each spreadsheet.

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