Optimizing maize-based cropping systems: sustainability, good agricultural practices (GAP) and yield goals Charles Wortmann, Patricio Grassini and Roger W. Elmore, University of

This chapter addresses sustainable crop production and how good agricultural practices (GAP) can optimize sustainable production. We outline here a range of metrics for setting and monitoring targets such as yield potential, yield gaps and yield goals and review metrics for sustainability targets and considerations in selecting between competing priorities. These are discussed in consideration of three contrasting maize cultivation systems: irrigated production in Nebraska, smallholder rain-fed production in the semi-arid Central Rift Valley of Ethiopia (CRVE) and rain-fed maize in the Pampas of Argentina.