Modeling the yield of forage and grain of irrigated corn using the AquaCrop model

Abstract

Objective: To calibrate and validate the AquaCrop model for simulating the forage and grain yield of maize cultivated under irrigation in Irrigation District 052 “Durango”. Design/Methodology/Approach: This study involved the parameterization of the AquaCrop model to simulate maize yield using two commercial hybrids (XR20A and XR21), cultivated under surface irrigation at the Valle del Guadiana Experimental Station of INIFAP, located within Irrigation District 052 "Durango," during the spring -summer (S -S) growing seasons of 2015, 2016, and 2017. Results: The findings demonstrate the model’s robustness in predicting grain yield, with a root mean square error (RMSE) of 0.47 t ha⁻¹ and a Willmott index (d) of 0.99. Limitations/Implications: The model requires calibration and validation under the specific agronomic conditions of the target region. Nevertheless, this research provides a valuable reference for future studies utilizing the AquaCrop model. Findings/Conclusions: AquaCrop represents a reliable tool for estimating both expected and potential maize yields, thereby supporting more informed decision-making by farmers