

Computer Model Will Help Farmers Protect
Yields and Water QualityBy
Dennis Senft July 18, 1997A new computer model now in the works will help farmers better
protect the environment while reaping maximum crop yields. Developed by scientists with USDAs Agricultural Research
Service, the Root Zone Water Quality Model (RZWQM) shows how various farming
practices affect soil water and movement of chemicals that might threaten
surface and groundwater quality. Farmers can use this information to help them
select the best tillage method, the safest times and types of irrigation and
when to apply pesticide and fertilizer. The scientists say the model could be
available to growers in three to five years. Under a new cooperative research and development agreement (CRADA)
with ARS, Water Resources Publications, LLC, of Englewood, Colo., will enhance
the software package and make it easier to use. The model--originally designed for use in research--may save some
research dollars in the future. Traditionally, scientists who study
pesticides passage through soil must measure the movement through each
soil type encountered. But the model can calculate pesticide movement for
different soil types. Researchers could also use the model to help growers fine-tune
precision farming. This approach uses satellite data to pinpoint crop nutrient
deficiencies, pest problems and other conditions. RZWQM has attracted interest from at least one major chemical
company. Thats because the model might eliminate some preliminary field
tests of new pesticide compounds. RZWQM could help a company to identify which
compounds merit the thorough studies required by regulatory agencies. The July issue of ARS Agricultural Research magazine
has a story about the model. The story also is on the World Wide Web at: http://www.ars.usda.gov/is/AR/archive/jul97/rzwqm0797.htm Scientific contact: Lajpat R. Ahuja, USDA-ARS
Great Plains Systems Research
Unit, Fort Collins, Colo., phone (970) 490-8315, fax (970) 490-8310,
[email protected]. U.S. Department of Agriculture | |