The objective of this work was to propose a methodology for land evaluation based on planting information, soil data extracted from a soil survey in a scale 1:50,000, and estimate of climatic risk, using a geographic information system (GIS). The reference area was the Jardim watershed, in the Federal District (Brazil). A water balance model was used to simulate the climatic risk for the corn crop (Zea mays L.), at nine different planting dates. Quantitative values for corn productivity parameters were defined for the cerrado region. Using algorithms of Boolean logic, established by a previously elaborated guide, serial crossings were accomplished allowing the elaboration of agricultural suitability maps of the lands for corn production, with five classes. The results showed a land instability variation, with time. It was verified that 66.5 % of the total area did not present physical limitations, 96 % of the lands had their soil fertility restricted and the period of least climatic risk was October 11-20.
land evaluation; GIS; cerrado