ABSTRACT:
A wind erosion prediction system (WEPS) is being developed by the Agricultural Research Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture. WEPS will be composed of seven submodels with appropriate data bases. The Crops submodel will calculate daily the total above-ground dry matter. Mathematical equations for the relationships of total dry matter to leaf area, stem area, and plant height will then be used to calculate an erosion-reduction factor for use in the Erosion submodel of WEPS. Such mathematical equations were developed for sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) from data obtained in a 2-year growth and development study made under semiarid conditions. Growing conditions in 1987 and 1988 differed considerably. Therefore, regression coefficients of equations relating total dry matter to plant development also differed significantly between years. Consequently, the data for both years were combined and additional equations developed.
Footnotes
J. D. Bilbro is a research agronomist with the Cropping Systems Research Lubomtory, Agricultural Research Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture, PO. Box 909, Big Spring, Texas 79721-0909. Mention of a trademark or proprietary product does not constitute a guarantee or warranty of the product by the USDA, and it does not imply its approval to the exclusion of other products that may also be suitable.
- Copyright 1992 by the Soil and Water Conservation Society
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