Simulating the effects of agricultural production practices on water conservation and crop yields using an improved SWAT model in the Texas High Plains, USA

A calibrated SWAT model equipped with an improved auto-irrigation function was used to evaluate the impacts of agricultural production practices on water balances and crop yields corn, sorghum, winter wheat for Palo Duro watershed located in Texas High Plains (THP). Fourteen scenarios were simulated including alternative irrigation application depths 12.7 mm 38.1 irrigated different planting dates wheat, dryland wheat. Results indicated greater depth (38.1 mm) led reductions seasonal requirements evapotranspiration (ETc) when compared baseline using 25.4 However, soil content, surface runoff, percolation increased. The opposite observed simulations same hydrologic variables but mm. Crop associated similar those achieved baseline. Delayed corn sorghum resulted decrease all studied parameters relative By contrast, early showed increase generally. Simulated relatively stable, a 3.7% reduction yield found late planting. Notably, clear both 11.2% 13.5%, respectively. reduced by 28.8% 2.7%, respectively, These findings suggest is promising maintaining reducing groundwater use from Ogallala Aquifer. Also, may benefit conservation. Nevertheless, might be warranted enhance THP.