Figure 3 shows how a yield map can have an immediate
management benefit. This 53 acre field is irrigated by a
center pivot. The two dark green circles of higher yield
were caused by leaks in the center pivot. As a result,
the cotton immediately under the leak received more
water than was applied to rest of the field. In addition
to pointing out that the leaks should be repaired, the
yield map clearly indicates that there is opportunity to
increase yields by irrigating more. The question then
becomes is the cost of additional irrigation exceeded
by the income provided by the increase in yield?
In the remainder of this publication, we present
a series of case studies from across the U.S. cotton
belt which illustrate how cotton yield maps were
used to take management actions or make management
changes that resulted in increased profitability