CAN MEDIUM-RANGE WEATHER FORECASTS INFLUENCE IRRIGATION SCHEDULING

Medium range weather forecasts (MRWF) are planned to be used in farm m anagement and decision-making. A logical basis for the use of MRWF in irrigation scheduling is presented. The methodology is based on a dail y soil water balance model to define the dynamic soil water state, and irrigation scheduling criteria based on soil moisture depletion. Hist orical rainfall data are used to examine the influence 3 to 5 days adv ance information of rainfall will have on irrigation scheduling of cro ps in the Jayakwadi Irrigation Project Area. For the deep soil, fixed irrigation depth scenario considered in this study, MRWF may not signi ficantly influence irrigation decisions. The methodology can be extend ed to evaluate the impact of MRWF on other farm decisions and in other situations. Such studies can be used to develop guidelines for establ ishing agricultural advisory services.