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Simulation and mathematical programming decision-making support for smallholder farming

Author

Listed:
  • Andrew J. Collins

    (Old Dominion University)

  • Kasi Bharath Vegesana

    (Old Dominion University)

  • Michael J. Seiler

    (The College of William & Mary)

  • Patrick O’Shea

    (Appalachian State University)

  • Prasanna Hettiarachchi

    (Saaraketha)

  • Frederic McKenzie

    (Old Dominion University)

Abstract

Many mathematical programs have been developed over the past 50 years to aid agricultural experts and other farming decision-makers. The application of these mathematical programs has seen limited success because their development has focused on mathematical theory as opposed to the requirements needed for application. This paper describes the development of two mathematical programs that were designed to integrate with a visualization simulation that aids a nontraditional group of agricultural decision-makers: illiterate Sri Lankan subsistence farmers. The simulation was designed to help these illiterate farmers make business decisions about their crop selection choices which, in turn, will help them develop their business plans required for obtaining bank micro-loans. This paper’s focus is on the use of linear programming as a potential tool to demonstrate the benefits of crop diversification and rotation to the farmer based on various available crop types. It also highlights the issues using such an approach.

Suggested Citation

  • Andrew J. Collins & Kasi Bharath Vegesana & Michael J. Seiler & Patrick O’Shea & Prasanna Hettiarachchi & Frederic McKenzie, 2013. "Simulation and mathematical programming decision-making support for smallholder farming," Environment Systems and Decisions, Springer, vol. 33(3), pages 427-439, September.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:envsyd:v:33:y:2013:i:3:d:10.1007_s10669-013-9460-7
    DOI: 10.1007/s10669-013-9460-7
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Cited by:

    1. Diaz-Gonzalez, Freddy A. & Vuelvas, Jose. & Vallejo, Victoria E. & Patino, D., 2023. "Fertilization rate optimization model for potato crops to maximize yield while reducing polluting nitrogen emissions," Ecological Modelling, Elsevier, vol. 485(C).
    2. Peter A. Beling, 2013. "Multi-scale decision making: challenges in engineering and environmental systems," Environment Systems and Decisions, Springer, vol. 33(3), pages 323-325, September.

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