Developing climate-based decision support systems from agricultural systems models

Publication date: 02/12/2019
Extent: 22 pages

Contributions by: Clyde W. Fraisse, University of Florida-Gainesville, USA; Norman E. Breuer, Catholic University Nuestra Señora de la Asunción, Paraguay; and Victor Cabrera, University of Wisconsin-Madison, USA

Chapter synopsis: Decision Support Systems (DSSs) in production agriculture are computer software programs that make use of models and other information to make site-specific recommendations for farm management-related activities. Major advances have been made in developing DSS for agriculture, particularly with respect to incorporating climate forecasts into farmers’ decision-making process. This chapter describes DSSs in agriculture, focussing on the importance of a participatory approach in DSS development. The chapter offers examples of climate-based DSS for crop and land management, pest and disease management, and livestock (dairy) management. The chapter reflects on lessons learned in the process of developing climate-based DSS. Finally, the chapter looks ahead to future research trends in this area.

DOI: 10.19103/AS.2019.0061.15