Aleksandra Putintceva
Pronouns: she/her
Research Mentor(s): Mohammed Ombadi
Research Mentor School/College/Department: Climate and Space Sciences and Engineering / Engineering
Program:
Authors: Aleksandra Putintceva, Mohammed Ombadi
Session: Session 6: 3:40 pm – 4:30 pm
Poster: 53
Abstract
The aim of this research is to comprehensively assess how drought episodes affect crop yields in Illinois. We particularly focus on understanding the connection between precipitation patterns and agricultural productivity. We gathered in-situ precipitation data from the Global Historical Climatology Network Daily (GHCNd) dataset. After filtering the data to cover the period from 1980 to the present, we ensured a substantial dataset from each station for accurate statewide analysis. We then calculated the Standardized Precipitation Index (SPI) to pinpoint drought periods in Illinois. Crop yield data for corn, soybeans, and wheat—key crops in Illinois—was obtained from the United States Department of Agriculture’s National Agricultural Statistics Survey. Employing statistical methods, we developed a visual representation to explore the correlation between drought periods and crop yields. Our analysis uncovered a decrease in crop yields during significant precipitation changes, shedding light on the vulnerability of agricultural systems to climatic fluctuations. In a broader context, these findings contribute to understanding how climate change impacts food production. They underscore the importance of developing and implementing drought-resistant crops to ensure food security, especially given the uncertainty surrounding the long-term effects of climate change.
