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Role of modelling in improving nutrient efficiency in cropping systems

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Abstract

The applicability of models in addressing resource management issues in agriculture has been widely promoted by the research community, yet examples of real impacts of such modelling efforts on current farming practices are rare. Nevertheless, simulation models can compliment traditional field experimentation in researching alternative management options. The first objective of this paper is, therefore, to provide four case study examples of where models were used to help research issues relating to improved nutrient efficiency in low-input cropping systems. The first two cases addressed strategies of augmenting traditional farming practices with small applications of chemical fertilizer (N and P). The latter two cases explicitly addressed the question of what plant genetic traits can be beneficial in low-nutrient farming systems. In each of these case studies, the APSIM (Agricultural Production Systems Simulator) systems model was used to simulate the impacts of alternative crop management systems.

The question of whether simulation models can assist the research community in contributing to purposeful change in farming practice is also addressed. Recent experiences in Australia are reported where simulation models have contributed to practice change by farmers. Finally, current initiatives aimed at testing whether models can also contribute to improving the nutrient efficiency of smallholder farmers in the SAT are discussed.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Agricultural Production Systems Research Unit (APSRU), CSIRO Sustainable Ecosystems, PO Box 102, Toowoomba, Qld, 4350, Australia

    P. S. Carberry & R.L. McCown

  2. Agricultural Production Systems Research Unit (APSRU), CSIRO Sustainable Ecosystems, 306 Carmody Rd, St Lucia, Qld, 4067, Australia

    M.E. Probert & B.A. Keating

  3. Matopos Research Station, Natural Resource Management Program, ICRISAT, PO Box 776, Bulawayo, Zimbabwe

    J.P. Dimes

Authors
  1. P. S. Carberry
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  2. M.E. Probert
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  3. J.P. Dimes
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  4. B.A. Keating
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  5. R.L. McCown
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Correspondence to P. S. Carberry.

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Carberry, P.S., Probert, M., Dimes, J. et al. Role of modelling in improving nutrient efficiency in cropping systems. Plant and Soil 245, 193–203 (2002). https://doi.org/10.1023/A:1020612416034

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