The DSSAT 2026 European Training Program was held from September 7 to 12, 2026 at the World Agricultural Systems Center – Hans Eisemann Forum of the Technical University of Munich in Freising, Germany. The workshop was attended by more than 25 participants, representing 13 different research and educational centers across Europe. The workshop was hosted by Professor Dr. Senthold Asseng, Chair of Digital Agriculture at the Technical University of Munich. Instructors included Dr. Upendra Singh with the International Fertilizer Center and Professor Gerrit Hoogenboom of the Global Food Systems Institute of the University of Florida.
The overall goal of the training program was to familiarize participants with a comprehensive computer model for the simulation of crop growth and yield, soil and plant water, nutrient and carbon dynamics, and their application to real-world agricultural problems. The program focused on the operation of DSSAT Version 4.8.6, the DSSAT Cropping System Model and its modules, minimum data requirements, experimental data collection, integration with databases and geographic information systems, and the application of DSSAT-CSM to improve the management of cropping systems.
The DSSAT training consisted of presentations, demonstrations, and hands-on exercises that participants completed throughout the week. The training material was based on the DSSAT 2026 International Training Program that was held at the University of Georgia in May, 2026. The training covered topics related to potential production, weather and genetic coefficients, water-limited production, soils and experimental data, nitrogen and phosphorus-limited production, climatic risk and sustainability, crop rotations, pest and disease damage, climate change and climate variability, and model applications.
All registered participants received a comprehensive set of materials, including DSSAT software resources, exercises, presentations, supporting documentation, certificates, and contact details of the DSSAT faculty and participants.
