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Problems and Perspectives on the Use of a Crop Simulation Model in an African Research Station

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  03 October 2008

T. Mbabaliye
Affiliation:
Institut des Sciences Agronomiques du Rwanda (ISAR), BP 617 Butarel Rwanda
P. A. Wojtkowski*
Affiliation:
School of Agriculture and Forest Science, University College of North Wales, Bangor, Gwynedd LL57 2UW, Wales
*
Author to whom corespondence should be addressed, at 65 Dexter St., Pittsfield, MA 01201-5601, USA.

Summary

Crop simulation models have been proposed as tools for the transfer of technology in less developed countries. Using a validation exercise as a framework for evaluation, this study looked at the ease of use of a simulation model in a small African research station. Although the model did not accurately predict grain yield of the local maize hybrid, the procedure did highlight some of the problems involved in applying the model. The constraints to the use of such models at small research stations are discussed and improvements that could facilitate model use are suggested.

Uso de model de cultivo para la investigación en Africa

Type
Research Article
Copyright
Copyright © Cambridge University Press 1994

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