Computer Simulation Model Of Available Field Workday For Nsukka Farming Environment

Abstract

Information on available field workdays (AFW) for agricultural operations in general and tillage operation in particular is required for optimum management and scheduling of operations. This data vary from place to depending on the weather, soil and crop types. Agro meteorological Data and actual AFW for tillage operation were obtained for 10 years (1992-2001) at Nsukka, Nigeria. A simulation model was developed for estimating AFW for tillage operations. The model is based on estimating field soil moisture using a soil moisture budgeting technique. This technique takes into consideration precipitation, drainage, surface runoff and evapotranspiration. The soil moisture estimated is compared with established tractability criteria to decide whether a particular day is a good working day or not. The model was used to predict AFW for tillage operations in Nsukka from 1992 to 2001 planting seasons.

Over the ten - year period, the mean AFW observed were 9, 23, 20, 16 for April, May, June and July respectively. Good agreement between predicted values and actual observations was obtained. The overall mean percent deviation of the predicted values compared to observed values was 16.9% thus, the model developed can be used for predicting AFW for tillage for the area.

KEY WORDS: Simulation Model, Available Field Workday, Soil Tractability, Soil Moisture Budgeting.

Global Journal of Engineering Research Vol.3(1&2) 2004: 1-7