Daniel Cook

Major Professor

The main goal of my thesis project is to validate ENVIRO-GRO, a multi-component model that predicts crop yield and potential groundwater degradation. To accomplish this I have designed a greenhouse study using repacked soil columns and tall fescue, Festuca arundinacea, as a test crop. Treatments in the study include different irrigation water regimes (applying a water stress), irrigation water salinities (salt stress), and nitrogen fertilizer applications. Crop yield will be measured, and then correlated to the yield predicted by the model. Nitrate leachate will also be determined and compared to the model. ENVIRO-GRO has the potential to be a useful irrigation management tool for farmers in arid regions who must deal with issues like salinity and dwindling water supplies.