Determination of the effect of climate change on irrigation water requirements of widely cultivated plants in Tekirdağ (Türkiye) using the CROPWAT 8.0 model

This study aims to determine the effect of climate change on the irrigation water requirements (IWR) of widely grown crops (Alfalfa, Walnut, Sugar Beet, Cherry, Sunflower, Wheat, Grape (Wine), Maize (Silage), Canola, Barley) in Tekirdağ with CROPWAT 8.0 model and to classify these crops in terms of irrigation strategies. To achieve this objective, firstly, climate data (1971-2024) were evaluated. Then, plant water consumption (ETc) and IWR were calculated and compared for each plant species for the 1971-2000 and 2001-2024 periods with CROPWAT 8.0. It was determined that there was a 9.9% increase in average temperatures and a 0.7% decrease in total annual precipitation in the 2001-2024 period compared to the 1971-2000 period. Compared to the 1971-2000 period, ETc (4.34%-6.93%) and IWR (7.86%-14.54%) of the most grown and produced crops in Tekirdağ increased in the 2001-2024 period. In addition, according to irrigation strategies in the research area, crops were classified as i) the most critical crops in terms of irrigation (walnut, grape, cherry), ii) crops requiring optimization with irrigation strategies (maize, alfalfa, sugar beet), and iii) non-irrigation priority crops (wheat, sunflower, barley, canola). It is thought that the research will be a guide for planning water resources and implementing sustainable agriculture based on plant patterns with climate change.