Use of Linear Programming Model to Determine the Optimum Cropping Pattern for an Irrigation Scheme in Masvingo, Zimbabwe

Abstract

Agricultural systems are often faced by challenges such as crop selection and irrigation planning which can be formulated as optimization problems. Decisions have to be made on the proper set of crops to be cultivated and a proper irrigation scheme. The objectives of such decisions are to maximize net profit or to minimize water waste. In this study, a linear programming model was developed that helped to determine the optimal cropping pattern for an irrigation scheme in Masvingo, Zimbabwe. Crops which considered were wheat, sugar beans for winter and cotton and maize for summer for the 2012/13 agricultural season. The linear programming model was solved by using Microsoft Excel (2007). The model recommended no production of wheat and cotton. Sugar beans and maize gained acreage by 50 percent and 88 percent respectively. On the whole, the optimal cropped acreage did not change as compared to the existing cropping plan. As a result of the optimal solution, a farmer‘s income could be increased by $1,668.60. The optimal income increased from existing level of $1,919.40 to $3,588.00 showing an improvement of 87 percent. The results show that LP models solutions are worthy implementing.