We simulated potential maize yields, biomass irrigation water productivity, and grain irrigation water productivity for western Kansas under two climate change scenarios during the period 2040-2069.
The study used the Decision Support System for Agrotechnology Transfer-Cropping Systems (DSSAT-CSM) crop model to represent growth, yield, evapotranspiration, transpiration, and time to maturity of west-Kansas corn cultivars.
An early, normal, and late planting date were simulated under deficit and full irrigation. Results indicated on average significant yield declines under simulated climate change scenarios in western Kansas, with severe yield losses under deficit irrigation. Planting dates had a significant impact on yield outcomes across all climate and irrigation scenarios.
There was no significant impact on irrigation water productivity under different planting dates however biomass and grain irrigation water productivity was improved under deficit irrigation. Under deficit irrigation, early planting had higher biomass and grain irrigation water productivity than normal and late planting dates.
Publication: Araya, A., I. Kisekka, X. Lin, P.V. Vara Prasad, P. H. Gowda, C. Rice, and A. Andales. (2017). Evaluating the Impact of Future Climate Change on Irrigated Maize Production in Kansas. Journal of Climate Risk Management.