A new optimization framework is presented which is able to identify optimal solutions for maximum profit design of subsurface drip irrigation (SDI) systems under limited supply. To solve this complex optimization problem, decomposition is used which splits the problem into three sub‐problems: (i) optimal irrigation control, which maximizes water distribution uniformity and minimizes percolation losses; (ii) optimal irrigation...

Models simulating the effects of water stress on crop growth can be valuable tools for improving water management. PILOTE, an operative crop model, and CropSyst, a more sophisticated one, are compared on the basis of the simulation of silage maize ( Zea maize L.) growth for 2 years (2009–2010) under different water supply regimes in the semi‐arid climate of Tadla (Morocco). Both based on Beer's law via the intercepted potentia...

Direct seeding into mulch (DSM) is a cropping system that is increasingly used in the world. The major concern among producers is the possible yield penalties associated with DSM compared to conventional tillage (CT). The aim of our study was to assess the effects of DSM on the yields of corn, sorghum and durum wheat, as well as water use efficiency (WUE) and nitrogen dynamics. An experimental study was carried out at the Lava...

In North African countries, irrigation considerably increases production. Given the run‐down condition of irrigation equipment, the rehabilitation and modernization of irrigation schemes is a topical question. In addition, some irrigation projects are currently being implemented thus requiring investments, and judicious decisions have to be taken. At the same time farms in North Africa are increasingly confronted with environm...

The Gharb plain in Morocco suffers from water excess in winter and from water deficit during the spring and summer. This explains the low profitability of the investments in irrigation agreed by the Moroccan state and low yields of winter crops. Furrow irrigation systems may be a way to increase water productivity by improving the surface drainage in winter, and by irrigating the crops efficiently in spring and summer. The aim...

The application of time domain reflectometry (TDR) principles to determine soil water content has been widely accepted as an alternative method since Topp et al. (1980) proposed an empirical relationship between the dielectric constant of soil and soil moisture content. However, a wide range of studies have made it clear that the proposed function has only restricted validity. Although the response of the TDR signal shows a st...