Profit maximisation algorithm including the loss of yield due to uncertain weather events during harvest

•Profits from the harvest and combine rentals were maximised.•The objective function included the risk of yield reduction.•The optimal solution of the LP problem was obtained iteratively.•The use of integer variables was avoided, which reduced the model complexity.

A general LP model and a profit maximisation algorithm for harvesting during an agrotechnical period have been created. The profit was based on the crop yields on a primary farm and the rental of combines to surrounding farms for their harvests. In contrast to the standard approach, the use of integer variables was avoided in the proposed model. The objective function included the risk of yield reduction due to bad weather conditions and the deliberate extension of the harvest on the primary farm, with the aim of higher profits from combine rentals. The model involved two conflicting criteria: the minimisation of risk during harvest on the primary farm and the maximisation of combine rentals; both of these aims were successfully incorporated into the objective function. The operational reliability of combines and tractors was taken into account in model creation. A general model was applied to a large farm (1380 ha) during a period of harvest and transport of oilseed rape, wheat and winter barley into storage (June–July). The farm that was considered is equipped with enough machinery to harvest other farms and on its own parcels simultaneously.