Optimizing a Model for Cropping Pattern Areas Irrigated by Treated Wastewater in Wadi Musa

In this study, a model was developed and tested to optimize the cropping pattern that maximizing Wadi Musa WWTP effluent reuse. Cultivated crops were: alfalfa, winter grains, fodder, olives and fruit trees. Using effluent supply and peak period crop water requirements, the model calculates the crop area for any combination of the recommended crops. In October 2004, the percentage of effluent used was 54.8% of all available water, falling to a minimum of 10.7% in January 2005. However, using the model to optimize the cropping pattern increased the percentage of the effluent used for irrigation from 10.7% to 38% in January and to 100% during the months of July, August and September, with a yearly average of 75% in 2007 growing season. Regression analysis indicated good agreement between measured and model predicted values for effluent percentage used. Thus, the model could be used with confidence to predict the optimal cropping pattern that maximizes effluent use, minimize effluent surplus and storage reservoir