Viewpoint: Soil Boron Guidelines for Reclaimed Western Soils

Abstract

Regulatory guidelines establish maximum allowable boron concentrations for mine reclamation soils and overburden. However, these toxic levels are based upon research performed on boron-sensitive crop species and not native plants that are naturally adapted to harsh conditions. Modifications of boron guideline parameters and laboratory analyses procedures as well as consideration of other soil interactions are suggested. A need for pertinent boron reclamation research is demonstrated.