Irrigation strategy selection based on crop yield, water, and energy use relationships: A Michigan example

ABSTRACT: Michigan has experienced a rapid increase in the use of supplemental irrigation. This increase in agricultural water use coincides with similar water use expansion by other sectors of the state, thus establishing the potential for future water use conflicts. The purpose of this analysis was to identify irrigation management strategies that promote the efficient use of water and energy resources. The CERES-Maize corn simulation model was used to generate the necessary crop yield and irrigation data for each strategy considered. An irrigation budget analysis model was used to estimate energy use. The results of the analysis suggest that water-and energy-use efficiency can be achieved through the use of small, frequent applications.