IRRIGATED CROPPING OPTIMIZATION

This paper develops a nonlinear optimization model for the determinati on of optimal cropping patterns in irrigated agriculture. Decision var iables are the cultivated area in each soil type at the farm. The obje ctive function of the model is based on crop-water production function s, irrigation technology used, and costs and prices of the products. T he model is solved using the GAMS-MINOS package for conditions existin g in Chile. The model gives the optimal distribution of areas and crop s, irrigation water needs, labor requirements, and total profit. Sensi tivity of the optimal solution to land, labor, and water resources is examined. Results of the model show that changes in the prices of expo rtable products and water cost have a large impact on the cropping pat terns and profit. Water availability affects the distribution and area of crops, whereas labor availability is more important for the agricu ltural enterprise than its wages.