Simulation of Spatially Variable Precision Irrigation and Its Effects On Corn Growth Using CERES-Maize
Year: 2006
Type: conference-paper
Abstract: Few studies have been done considering the possibility of irrigation systems in Iowaor other humid regions. Recent technological progress in precision agriculture may allow irrigation inthese areas to become more economically feasible. Crop models have emerged as a method toevaluate different crop management practices such as irrigation without costly and time-consumingonsite experiments. In this study, the CERES-Maize crop model was used in conjunction withAPOLLO, a shell program developed at Iowa State University, to evaluate potential improved yield ina central Iowa cornfield on a spatially and temporally variable basis. Five years of historical yield andweather data were used to calibrate the model over 100 spatially variable grids for nonirrigatedconditions in the 20.25 ha field. This calibrated model then used 28 years of historical weather datato simulate three irrigation scenarios: no irrigation, scheduled uniform irrigation, and precisionirrigation. 30 mm irrigations were applied when the percent of available soil water fell below 50percent. Irrigation improved yield by at least 1000 kg ha-1 in half of the years simulated, and alsoshowed to have less variability both spatially and temporally. Precision irrigation showed slightlyhigher yields than scheduled uniform irrigation. Spatial variability of yield was most influence bytopography, with the largest improvements occurring on steep sideslopes and hilltops. Assuminguse of a center pivot irrigation system, irrigation showed economic returns in only three of the 28years included in the study. High capital costs were the leading restrictor of economic feasibility.
DOI: 10.13031/2013.20710
Authors: Kendall DeJonge, Amy Kaleita
Language: English
Subfield: Soil Science
Domain: Life Sciences
SDG: Zero hunger
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W2046592148