Combinations of field experimentation and modelling have also played a role in the dispelling
and/or clarification of a number of historical ‘rules of
thumb’ or ‘folklore’ (such as the use in Australia of
fixed drying-off ranges for soils of different PAWC)
and the critical evaluation of industry accepted
benchmark water use efficiency figures. Furthermore,
models have played a role in prioritizing and focusing
future research and development activities.