Comparing deep drainage estimated with transient and steady state models in irrigated Vertisols

Abstract

This study compared deep drainage estimates in vertisols under cotton-based cropping systems in NW New South Wales, Australia, assuming steady state and transient state conditions, and identified between Sodium SALF and SODICS, which model was best for different phases of crop rotation. Comparison of deep drainage with pre- and post-season soil chloride concentrations showed that the steady state mass model best estimated deep drainage under cotton crops (which were irrigated more frequently) and wheat crops (which had better soil structure).