Author(s): Bing Yu; Songhao Shang; Jiaye Li

Linked Author(s):

Keywords: Crop distribution optimization; Crop planting suitability; Hetao Irrigation District; Remote sensing; Water productivity

Abstract: Addressing the challenges posed by land and water resource constraints, the attainment of the Sustainable Development Goal of zero hunger by 2030 remains a crucial challenge. A key aspect in achieving this goal is determining the appropriate planting pattern for various crops to enhance regional-scale crop water productivity with limited water available for irrigation. However, current researches on remote sensing-based assessments of regional crop water productivity and planting suitability are still limited. In this study, we present a satellite-based integrated approach to assess crop planting suitability, aiming to enhance regional crop water productivity. Focusing on the Hetao Irrigation District (HID), a representative irrigation district in arid region of China, we use remote sensing data (HJ-1A/1B) to estimate crop water productivity for maize and sunflower within the HID from evapotranspiration and yield estimates. Additionally, we introduce a novel crop planting suitability index based on the frequency distribution of crop water productivity. These indices can be used to determine appropriate crop planting distribution. The proposed method can be applied in irrigation district or regional scale, and the results offer valuable insights for local governments in decision-making to maximize regional crop water productivity.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.3850/iahr-hic2483430201-197

Year: 2024