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on Agricultural Economics |
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Issue of 2009‒12‒11
53 papers chosen by |
| By: | Hossain, Mahabub |
| Keywords: | millions fed, food security, Agricultural policy, Environmental impacts, Minor irrigation, shallow tubewells, tube wells, boro rice, technological progress, |
| Date: | 2009 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:fpr:ifprid:917&r=agr |
| By: | Bruce, John W.; Li, Zongmin |
| Keywords: | millions fed, food security, Land reform, Land tenure, Collectivized agriculture, Household responsibility, |
| Date: | 2009 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:fpr:ifprid:926&r=agr |
| By: | Maredia, Mywish K. |
| Keywords: | millions fed, food security, Impact assessment, Agriculture, Agricultural development, Proof, Impact evaluation, |
| Date: | 2009 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:fpr:ifprid:929&r=agr |
| By: | Sulser, Timothy B.; Ringler, Claudia; Zhu, Tingju; Msangi, Siwa; Bryan, Elizabeth; Rosegrant, Mark W. |
| Keywords: | Green water, Blue water, Irrigation, Rainfed, Agriculture, technology, Investment, Impact, Climate change, Water resources, |
| Date: | 2009 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:fpr:ifprid:907&r=agr |
| By: | Oniang'o, Ruth |
| Keywords: | Food, Nutrition, Food emergencies, food security, Hunger, malnutrition, Disease, Risk assessment, HIV/AIDS, |
| Date: | 2009 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:fpr:ifprid:909&r=agr |
| By: | Li, Jiming; Xin, Yeyun; Yuan, Longping |
| Keywords: | millions fed, food security, Hybrid rice, |
| Date: | 2009 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:fpr:ifprid:918&r=agr |
| By: | Iannotti, Lora; Cunningham, Kenda; Ruel, Marie |
| Keywords: | millions fed, food security, Homestead food production, HFP, Micronutrient, Homestead garden, |
| Date: | 2009 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:fpr:ifprid:928&r=agr |
| By: | Kirk, Michael; Tuan, Nguyen Do Anh |
| Keywords: | millions fed, food security, rice, Land tenure, Land reform, Doi Moi, Decollectivization, |
| Date: | 2009 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:fpr:ifprid:927&r=agr |
| By: | Kaminski, Jonathan; Headey, Derek; Bernard, Tanguy |
| Keywords: | millions fed, food security, Cotton, Burkinabe, Reform, SOFITEX, CFDT, |
| Date: | 2009 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:fpr:ifprid:920&r=agr |
| By: | Medhin, Haileselassie A. (Environmental Economics Policy Forum for Ethiopia and Ethiopian Development Research Institute); Köhlin, Gunnar (Department of Economics, School of Business, Economics and Law, Göteborg University) |
| Abstract: | This study adopts the stochastic metafrontier approach to investigate the role of soil conservation in small-scale highland agriculture in Ethiopia. Plot-level stochastic frontiers and metafrontier technology-gap ratios were estimated for three soil-conservation technology groups and a group of plots without soil conservation. Plots with soil conservation were found to be more technically efficient than plots without. The metafrontier estimates showed that soil conservation enhances the technological position of naturally disadvantaged plots.<p> |
| Keywords: | Soil conservation; technical efficiency; metafrontier; technology adoption; Ethiopia |
| JEL: | L25 Q12 Q16 |
| Date: | 2009–11–30 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:hhs:gunwpe:0405&r=agr |
| By: | Ariga, Joshua; Jayne, Thomas S. |
| Keywords: | millions fed, food security, Fertilizer, maize, Liberalization market, |
| Date: | 2009 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:fpr:ifprid:921&r=agr |
| By: | Erenstein, Olaf |
| Keywords: | millions fed, food security, zero tillage, rice, Wheat, Indo-Gangetic Plains, IGP, |
| Date: | 2009 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:fpr:ifprid:916&r=agr |
| By: | Yosef, Sivan |
| Keywords: | millions fed, food security, Tilapia, Genetically improved, Worldfish, ICLARM, |
| Date: | 2009 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:fpr:ifprid:925&r=agr |
| By: | Yesuf, Mahmud (Environmental Economics Policy Forum for Ethiopia, Ethiopian Development Research Institute); Köhlin, Gunnar (Department of Economics, School of Business, Economics and Law, Göteborg University) |
| Abstract: | This paper investigates the impacts of market and institutional imperfections on technology adoption in a model that considers fertilizer use and soil conservation to be joint decisions. Controlling for plot characteristics and other factors, we found that a household’s decision to adopt fertilizer significantly and negatively depends on whether the same household adopts soil conservation. The reverse causality, however, was insignificant. We also found that outcomes of market imperfections, such as limited access to credit, plot size, risk considerations, and rates-of-time preference, were significant factors in explaining variations in farm technology adoption decisions. Relieving the existing market imperfections will most likely increase the adoption rate of farm technologies.<p> |
| Keywords: | Bivariate probit; fertilizer adoption; market imperfections; risk aversion; time preferences; soil conservation |
| JEL: | C35 D43 Q12 Q24 |
| Date: | 2009–11–30 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:hhs:gunwpe:0403&r=agr |
| By: | Roeder, Peter; Rich, Karl |
| Keywords: | millions fed, food security, Rinderpest, livestock, Cattle, Disease, Epidemic, GREP, |
| Date: | 2009 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:fpr:ifprid:923&r=agr |
| By: | Tamini, Lota D.; Larue, Bruno |
| Abstract: | An input distance function (IDF) is estimated to empirically evaluate and analyze the technical and environmental efficiencies of 210 farms located in the Chaudière watershed (Quebec), where water quality problems are particularly acute because of the production of undesirable outputs that are jointly produced with agricultural products. The true IDF is approximated by a flexible translog functional form estimated using a full information maximum likelihood method. Technical and environmental efficiencies are disaggregated across farms and account for spatial variations. Our results show that there is a significant correlation between technical and environmental efficiencies. The IDF is used to compute the cumulative Malmquist productivity index and the Fisher index. The two indices are used to measure changes in technology, profitability, efficiency, and productivity in response to the adoption of 2 selected best management practices (BMPs) whose objective is to reduce water pollution. We found significant differences across BMPs regarding the direction and the magnitude of their effect on profitability, efficiency and productivity. |
| Keywords: | Environmental efficiency; distance function; phosphorus runoff; productivity; profitability; technical efficiency. |
| JEL: | Q52 C43 Q25 |
| Date: | 2009–07 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:pra:mprapa:18964&r=agr |
| By: | Cunningham, Kenda |
| Keywords: | millions fed, food security, Operation flood, Dairy, NDDB, Dairy cooperatives, |
| Date: | 2009 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:fpr:ifprid:924&r=agr |
| By: | Muchapondwa, Edwin (School of Economics, University of Cape Town); Sterner, Thomas (Department of Economics, School of Business, Economics and Law, Göteborg University) |
| Abstract: | This paper investigates whether the risk faced by rural farmers in Zimbabwe could poten- tially be managed by using community-based wildlife conservation. Community-based wildlife conservation could be an additional asset in the rural farmers’ investment portfolio thereby potentially diversifying and consequently reducing the risk they face. Such investment could also help e¤orts to conserve wildlife. By making use of national historical data and statistical analysis, this paper …nds that community-based wildlife conservation is a feasible hedge asset for agricultural production in rural Zimbabwe. The bene…ts of diversi…cation into community-based wildlife conservation are likely to be high only in those rural areas that can sustain wildlife pop- ulations su¢cient to generate adequate returns from wildlife activities such as tourism, trophy hunting, live animal sales and meat cropping.<p> |
| Keywords: | CAMPFIRE; diversi…cation; risk management; wildlife conservation; Zimbabwe |
| JEL: | D81 G11 Q29 |
| Date: | 2009–12–03 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:hhs:gunwpe:0409&r=agr |
| By: | Yesuf, Mahmud (Environment for Development-Kenya, Kenyan Institute for Public Policy Research and Analysis (KIPPRA)); Kassie, Menale (Department of Economics, School of Business, Economics and Law, Göteborg University); Köhlin, Gunnar (Department of Economics, School of Business, Economics and Law, Göteborg University) |
| Abstract: | In countries where insurance and credit markets are thin or missing, production and consumption risks play a critical role in the choice and use of production inputs and adoption of new farm technologies. In this paper, we investigated impacts of chemical fertilizer and soil and water conservation technologies adoption on production risks, using a moment-based approach and two years of cross-sectional data. A pseudo-fixed-effect model was estimated to generate first, second, and third moments of farm production. Our results revealed that fertilizer adoption reduces yield variability, but increases the risk of crop failure. However, adopting soil and water conservation technology has no impact on yield variability, but reduces the downside risk of crop failure. The results underscore that the risk implications of farm technology adoption vary by technology type. Furthermore, policies that promote adoption of fertilizers should be complemented by desirable instruments that hedge against downside risk. In that respect, if properly implemented, the safety net program and the weather insurance programs currently piloted in some parts of Ethiopia are actions in the right direction.<p> |
| Keywords: | production risks; farm technology; moment-based approach; Ethiopia |
| JEL: | C33 D21 Q16 Q24 |
| Date: | 2009–11–30 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:hhs:gunwpe:0404&r=agr |
| By: | Dubin, H.J.; Brennan, John P. |
| Keywords: | millions fed, food security, wheat rust, stem rust, leaf rust, Norman Borlaug, |
| Date: | 2009 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:fpr:ifprid:910&r=agr |
| By: | Reij, Chris; Tappan, Gary; Smale, Melinda |
| Keywords: | millions fed, food security, Sahel, Zai, Stone bunds, Agroforestry, Soil management, |
| Date: | 2009 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:fpr:ifprid:914&r=agr |
| By: | Mélanie Jaeck; Robert Lifran |
| Abstract: | The aim of this paper is to elicit the sensitivity of farmers to payment for agro-environmental services in a context of strong ecological and policy constraints. We present results from a choice experiment survey performed among the whole population of agricultural decision-makers (104) in the Camargue area. Several econometric models have been estimated, the most significant being the Latent Classes one. Three classes have been identified, two of them representing farmers with strong committment to a specified technology (either very chemicals intensive or organic farming ), the main class encompassing farmers complying with the norms of the PGI « Riz de Camargue » . The estimated parameters of the utility function, together with the parameter of the monetary attribute provided the monetary value of each relevant agro-ecological attribute and the associated outcomes (average and risk yield). Outcomes of the choice experiments make a strong case for differentiating incentives for spreading environmental friendly technologies. |
| Date: | 2009–12 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:lam:wpaper:09-16&r=agr |
| By: | Hazell, Peter B.R. |
| Keywords: | millions fed, Green Revolution, agricultural transformation, |
| Date: | 2009 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:fpr:ifprid:911&r=agr |
| By: | Pray, Carl E.; Nagarajan, Latha |
| Keywords: | millions fed, food security, Pearl millet, Sorghum, |
| Date: | 2009 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:fpr:ifprid:919&r=agr |
| By: | Kassie, Menale (Environmental Economics Policy Forum for Ethiopia, Ethiopian Development Research Institute); Pender, John (International Food Policy Research Institute, Washington, DC); Yesuf, Mahmud (Environmental Economics Policy Forum for Ethiopia, Ethiopian Development Research Institute); Köhlin, Gunnar (Department of Economics, School of Business, Economics and Law, Göteborg University); Mulugeta, Elias (International Livestock Research Institute) |
| Abstract: | Land degradation has been one of the major areas of concern in Ethiopia. Governments and development agencies have invested substantial resources to promote land management technologies and reduce land degradation. However, there is little understanding of the impacts that land management technologies have on yield and yield variability. This paper investigates the impact of stone bunds on mean yield and variance of yield, using multiple plot observations per household in low- and highrainfall areas of the Ethiopian highlands. Our analysis incorporated the propensity score matching method, stochastic dominance analysis, and exogenous and endogenous switching regression methods. We found statistically significant and positive impact of stone bunds on yield in low-rainfall areas. This did not hold in high-rainfall areas. We did not find a statistically significant stone-bund impact on production risk in either high- or low-rainfall areas. The results were robust to both parametric and nonparametric analysis. The overall conclusion from the analysis is that the performance of stone bunds varies by agro-ecology type. This implies the need for designing and implementing appropriate technologies that enhance productivity and are better adapted to local conditions.<p> |
| Keywords: | Switching regression; stochastic dominance; propensity score matching; stone bunds; yield; yield risk; Ethiopia |
| JEL: | C35 O33 Q15 Q24 |
| Date: | 2009–11–30 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:hhs:gunwpe:0408&r=agr |
| By: | Nyangena, Wilfred (School of Economics, University of Nairobi); Köhlin, Gunnar (Department of Economics, School of Business, Economics and Law, Göteborg University) |
| Abstract: | Productivity gains from soil and water conservation (SWC) have empirical support in research stations. Previous empirical results from on-farm adoption of SWC are, however, varied. This study investigated the impact of soil conservation investment on farm productivity in three regions in Kenya. Using plot-level survey data, we focused on land productivity on plots with and without SWC. We tested the overall soil conservation hypothesis that increased SWC is beneficial for yield, as well as more specific hypotheses that SWC affects levels of inputs, returns from these inputs, and crop characteristics. The results showed a mixed picture where plots without SWC generally have higher yield values per hectare. However, plots with SWC are significantly steeper and more eroded than plots without SWC. A more careful analysis of a two-stage random effects–switching regression estimation comparing three SWC technologies to plots without SWC indicated that SWC increased the returns from degraded plots and sometimes from other inputs. A simulation exercise based on these estimations also showed that, in most cases, adoption has been beneficial for those who have done it and would be beneficial for those who have not.<p> |
| Keywords: | Kenya; soil conservation; switching regression; rural households; yields |
| JEL: | D61 Q12 Q16 |
| Date: | 2009–11–30 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:hhs:gunwpe:0402&r=agr |
| By: | Parthapratim Pal |
| Abstract: | The paper points out that some provisions of the framework will allow developed countries to maintain and, in some cases, even increase domestic farm support and still remain WTO-compliant. In most cases, though, the July Framework only provides broad guidelines and leaves the field open for specific modalities of subsidy reduction to be decided through negotiations. For this reason, it is important that developing countries thoroughly understand the issues that are up for negotiation. [WP, Hong Kong Series 2] |
| Keywords: | Agricultural, World Trade Organisation, Uruguay Round, weath, European Union, EU, MDG, India, rice, exports, farmers, developed countries, domestic farm, WTO, subsidy, negotiations, developing, |
| Date: | 2009 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:ess:wpaper:id:2306&r=agr |
| By: | Shanmugasundaram, Subramanyam; Keatinge, J.D.H.; Hughes, Jacqueline d'Arros |
| Keywords: | millions fed, food security, Mungbean, AVRDC, World Vegetable Center, |
| Date: | 2009 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:fpr:ifprid:922&r=agr |
| By: | Kassie, Menale (Environmental Economics Policy Forum for Ethiopia, Ethiopian Development Research Institute); Yesuf, Mahmud (Environmental Economics Policy Forum for Ethiopia, Ethiopian Development Research Institute); Köhlin, Gunnar (Department of Economics, School of Business, Economics and Law, Göteborg University) |
| Abstract: | This paper provides empirical evidence of production risk impact on sustainable land- management technology adoption, using two years of cross-sectional plot-level data collected in the Ethiopian highlands. We used a moment-based approach, which allowed a flexible representation of the production risk (Antle 1983, 1987). Mundlak’s approach was used to capture the unobserved heterogeneity along with other regressors in the estimation of fertilizer and conservation adoption. The empirical results revealed that impact of production risk varied by technology type. Production risks (variance and crop failure as measured by second and third central moments, respectively) had significant impact on fertilizer adoption and extent of adoption. However, this impact was not observed in adoption of conservation technology. On the other hand, expected return (as measured by the first central moment) had a positive significant impact on both fertilizer (adoption and intensity) and conservation adoption. Economic instruments that hedge against risk exposure, including downside risk and increase productivity, are important to promote adoption of improved technology and reduce poverty in Ethiopia.<p> |
| Keywords: | Production risk; sustainable land management technology adoption; moment based estimation; Ethiopia |
| JEL: | C33 D13 D81 O33 Q24 |
| Date: | 2009–11–30 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:hhs:gunwpe:0407&r=agr |
| By: | Ojha, Hemant; Persha, Lauren; Chhatre, Ashwini |
| Keywords: | millions fed, food security, Community forestry, Civil society, CFUG, |
| Date: | 2009 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:fpr:ifprid:913&r=agr |
| By: | Karlan, Dean (Yale University and Innovations for Poverty Action); Zinman, Jonathan (Dartmouth College and Innovations for Poverty Action) |
| Abstract: | Microcredit seeks to promote business growth and improve well-being by expanding access to credit. We use a field experiment and follow-up survey to measure impacts of a credit expansion for microentrepreneurs in Manila. The effects are diffuse, heterogeneous, and surprising. Although there is some evidence that profits increase, the mechanism seems to be that businesses shrink by shedding unproductive workers. Overall, borrowing households substitute away from labor (in both family and outside businesses), and into education. We also find substitution away from formal insurance, along with increases in access to informal risk-sharing mechanisms. Our treatment effects are stronger for groups that are not typically targeted by microlenders: male and higher-income entrepreneurs. In all, our results suggest that microcredit works broadly through risk management and investment at the household level, rather than directly through the targeted businesses. |
| JEL: | D10 D20 G20 O10 |
| Date: | 2009–07 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:ecl:yaleco:68&r=agr |
| By: | Zeynep K. Hansen; Gary D. Libecap; Scott E. Lowe |
| Abstract: | Greater historical perspective is needed to enlighten current debate about future human responses to higher temperatures and increased precipitation variation. We analyze the impact of climatic conditions and variability on agricultural production in five semi-arid western states. We assemble county-level data on dams and other major water infrastructure; agricultural crop mixes and yields; precipitation and temperature; soil quality, and topography. Using this extensive data set, we analyze the impact of water infrastructure investments on crop mix and yields in affected counties relative to similarly-endowed counties that lack such infrastructure. We find that water infrastructure smoothes agricultural crop production and increases the likelihood of a successful harvest, especially during times of severe drought or excessive precipitation. |
| JEL: | N5 N51 N52 Q25 Q54 |
| Date: | 2009–12 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:nbr:nberwo:15558&r=agr |
| By: | Marin Bozic (The Institute of Economics, Zagreb); Brian W. Gould (Department of Agricultural and Applied Economics, University of Wisconsin) |
| Abstract: | This study has three main objectives: (i) to quantify the impacts of milk and feed price changes on the primary milk supply in the U.S.; (ii) to examine the impacts of technological changes on the price responsiveness of supply and specific herd characteristics; and (iii) to generate dynamic long-run forecasts of the milk supply response to price changes and possible future technological advancements. The econometric analysis contained in this study is an update of the model by Chavas and Klemme (1986). We used the residual-based bootstrap to test hypotheses regarding the long-run price-responsiveness of supply, and found that the 10-year elasticity of milk supply to milk price is lower in 2007 than it was in 1980. This result is most surprising. One might expect that with better genetics, improved heifer management and larger farms the industry would be likely to react to prices more quickly than almost thirty years ago, when small and medium-sized dairy operations played a major role. A detailed analysis of the predicted herd structure supports the conjecture that a decrease in price responsiveness is a consequence of decades-long excessive focus on yield improvement in genetic selection. The intensive production process could make cows susceptible to health problems, imposing biological constraints on the economic lifetime of a cow. Hence, herd expansion decisions will be harder to implement, as culling rates are not easily reduced, and more replacement heifers are needed just to keep the herd size stable. |
| Keywords: | milk supply, long-run elasticities |
| JEL: | Q11 |
| Date: | 2009–11 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:iez:wpaper:0902&r=agr |
| By: | Trigo, E.; Cap, E.; Malach, V.; Villarreal, F. |
| Keywords: | millions fed, food security, zero tillage, Soil conservation, soybean, |
| Date: | 2009 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:fpr:ifprid:915&r=agr |
| By: | Kassie, Menale (Environmental Economics Policy Forum for Ethiopia and Ethiopian Development Research Institute); Holden, Stein (Department of Economics and Resource management, Norwegian University of Life Sciences); Köhlin, Gunnar (Department of Economics, School of Business, Economics and Law, Göteborg University); Bluffstone, Randy (Department of Economics, Portland State University) |
| Abstract: | This study measures the impact of fanya juu bunds (an important soil and water conservation technology and the most popular type of contour bund in east Africa) on the value of crop production in a high-rainfall area in the Ethiopian highlands using cross-sectional multiple plot observations. We applied switching regression, stochastic dominance analysis (SDA), and decomposition and propensity score matching methods to ensure robustness. The switching regression, SDA, and decomposition analyses relied on matched observations, which was important because regression and SDA often do not ensure that comparable plots with conservation technology (conserved) and plots without (unconserved) actually exist in the distribution of covariates. All models told a consistent story that the value of crop production for plots with bunds was lower than for plots without bunds. In addition, the yield decomposition results showed that, although there was little difference in endowments between conserved and unconserved plots, the returns to endowments were substantially higher for unconserved plots. Based on these findings, it was hard to avoid the conclusion that these technologies might reduce soil erosion and associated off-site effects, but they did so at the expense of poor farmers in the Ethiopian highlands. We concluded that unless productivity was increased—for example by increasing fodder grass production on bunds—fanya juu bunds reduced on-farm production and therefore could not be characterized as a “win-win” measure to reduce soil erosion. |
| Keywords: | Ethiopia; soil conservation; matched data; decomposition |
| JEL: | C21 C23 Q12 Q15 Q16 |
| Date: | 2009–11–30 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:hhs:gunwpe:0400&r=agr |
| By: | Geoffroy Enjolras; Robert Kast; Patrick Sentis |
| Abstract: | Diversification is the traditional way farmers use to hedge against crop yield variations. However, most insurance policies and financial contracts do not take into account this strategy in their design. In this context, we develop a of portfolio insurance model based on area-yield crop indices. This Multi-Linear Additive Model (Multi-LAM extends previous linear approaches while it preserves their theoretical properties. We determine the conditions of use of our model and prove that it can be used despite crop yields correlations. An application to a large sample of French farms reveals the potential extent of the Multi-LAM, which significantly reduces the area-yield basis risk associated to the use of indices. We then discuss implications for crop insurance. |
| Date: | 2009–11 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:lam:wpaper:09-15&r=agr |
| By: | Geijer, Erik (Dept of Forest Economics); Bostedt, Göran (Dept of Forest Economics); Brännlund, Runar (Department of Economics, Umeå University) |
| Abstract: | The main objective of this paper is to analyze the potential goal conflict between two of Sweden’s environmental objectives: Sustainable Forests and Reduced Climate Impact – or, more precisely, the conflict between forest conservation and the supply of wood fuel. To accomplish this, we use a forest sector model that includes the suppliers and major users of roundwood. The econometric results, based on a data set that spans 40 years, show that all the own price elasticities have the expected signs. Among the three forestry products, the supply and (long-term) demand of forest fuel seems to be most sensitive to a price change. In a second step, the estimated model is used to simulate the effect of increased forest conservation -- the Sustainable Forest objective -- on the supply of wood fuel. If oil is used as a substitute, Swedish emissions of greenhouse gases will increase by almost 0.92 percent, which indicates a clear conflict with the Reduced Climate Impact objective. |
| Keywords: | Goal conflict; Wood fuels; Forest sector model; Roundwood markets; Forest conservation |
| JEL: | C30 L73 Q41 Q48 |
| Date: | 2009–11–27 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:hhs:umnees:0794&r=agr |
| By: | Tamini, Lota D. |
| Abstract: | This study investigates the factors that determine producers’ participation in agri-environment (AE) extension activities and their adoption of best management practices (BMPs) in Quebec (Canada). Data were collected from farmers in telephone interviews and the impacts of AE extension activities were analyzed using average treatment effect and local average treatment effect, estimated with non-parametric approaches. The average effects of AE extension activities are statistically significant for the majority of BMPs. We also find a statistically significant formal diffusion effect of producer‘s membership in an AE advisory club. The informal diffusion effect is statistically significant for BMPs that have visible impacts. |
| Keywords: | best management practices; producers’ behavior; agri-environmental extension; treatment effects |
| JEL: | Q16 Q56 C31 Q12 |
| Date: | 2009–08 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:pra:mprapa:18961&r=agr |
| By: | Jacinto F. Fabiosa (Center for Agricultural and Rural Development (CARD); Food and Agricultural Policy Research Institute (FAPRI)); James Hansen; Holger Matthey; Suwen Pan; Francis Tuan |
| Abstract: | A team of U.S. analysts visited China to assess the potential for use of distillers dried grain plus solubles (DDGS) in China's livestock sector. They examined the economics of the use of DDGS in feeds, the policy issues surrounding the use of the product, and transportation-logistic constraints in the expansion of DDGS imports. The team collected actual and secondary data to conduct a micro-economic analysis of the impact of DDGS on feed cost, solicited official and expert opinions through interviews, and conducted site visits. They found the development of the DDGS import market in China to be very promising. The microeconomic analysis showed a clear economic incentive for feed millers and livestock producers to use DDGS in their feed ration, with a potential savings of $1 per hundredweight of mixed feed, representing a 6% feed cost savings. Moreover, China has the livestock numbers to support a DDGS market. Concerns about myctoxin contamination and nutrient profile variability must be addressed, however. Clearly differentiating imported DDGS from domestic DDGS is key in positioning U.S. DDGS in the Chinese market. Also, a science-based, and pro-active approach is needed to address policy-induced barriers. |
| Keywords: | DDGS, distillers grain, feed demand, livestock sector, optimal feed ration. |
| Date: | 2009–12 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:ias:cpaper:09-sr104&r=agr |
| By: | Bandyopadhyay, Subhayu (Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis); Bhaumik, Sumon K. (Brunel University); Wall, Howard J. (Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis) |
| Abstract: | We present a general equilibrium analysis of biofuel subsidies in an open-economy context. In the small-country case, when a Pigouvian tax on conventional fuels such as crude is in place, the optimal biofuel subsidy is zero. When the tax on crude is not available as a policy option, however, a second-best biofuel subsidy (or tax) is optimal. In the large-country case, the optimal tax on crude departs from its standard Pigouvian level and a biofuel subsidy is optimal. A biofuel subsidy spurs global demand for food and confers a terms-of-trade benefit to the food-exporting nation. This might encourage the food-exporting nation to use a subsidy even if it raises global crude use. The food importer has no such incentive for subsidization. Terms-of-trade effects wash out between trading nations; hence, any policy intervention by the two trading nations that raises crude use must be jointly suboptimal. |
| Keywords: | optimal biofuel subsidy, Pigouvian tax, terms-of-trade, pollution externality |
| JEL: | F1 H2 O1 |
| Date: | 2009–11 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:iza:izadps:dp4584&r=agr |
| By: | Jacinto F. Fabiosa (Center for Agricultural and Rural Development (CARD); Food and Agricultural Policy Research Institute (FAPRI)); James Hansen; Holger Matthey; Suwen Pan; Francis Tuan |
| Abstract: | A team of U.S. analysts visited China to assess the potential for use of distillers dried grain plus solubles (DDGS) in China's livestock sector. They examined the economics of the use of DDGS in feeds, the policy issues surrounding the use of the product, and transportation-logistic constraints in the expansion of DDGS imports. The team collected actual and secondary data to conduct a micro-economic analysis of the impact of DDGS on feed cost, solicited official and expert opinions through interviews, and conducted site visits. They found the development of the DDGS import market in China to be very promising. The microeconomic analysis showed a clear economic incentive for feed millers and livestock producers to use DDGS in their feed ration, with a potential savings of $1 per hundredweight of mixed feed, representing a 6% feed cost savings. Moreover, China has the livestock numbers to support a DDGS market. Concerns about myctoxin contamination and nutrient profile variability must be addressed, however. Clearly differentiating imported DDGS from domestic DDGS is key in positioning U.S. DDGS in the Chinese market. Also, a science-based, and pro-active approach is needed to address policy-induced barriers. |
| Keywords: | DDGS, distillers grain, feed demand, livestock sector, optimal feed ration. |
| Date: | 2009–12 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:ias:fpaper:09-sr104&r=agr |
| By: | Fischer, Carolyn (Resources for the Future (RFF),); Muchapondwa, Edwin (Department of Economics, University of Zimbabwe); Sterner, Thomas (Department of Economics, School of Business, Economics and Law, Göteborg University) |
| Abstract: | This paper formulates a bioeconomic model to analyze community incentives for wildlife management under benefit-sharing programs like the Communal Areas Management Programme for Indigenous Resources (CAMPFIRE) in Zimbabwe. Two agents influence the wildlife stock: a parks agency determines hunting quotas, and a local community chooses to either aid or discourage outside poachers. Wildlife generates revenues from hunting licenses and tourism; it also intrudes on local agriculture. We consider two benefit-sharing regimes: shares of wildlife tourism rents and shares of hunting licenses. Resource sharing does not necessarily improve community welfare or incentives for wildlife conservation. Results depend on the exact design of the benefit shares, the size of the benefits compared with agricultural losses, and the way in which the parks agency sets hunting licenses.<p> |
| Keywords: | bioeconomic; CAMPFIRE; community; poaching; wildlife; benefit sharing |
| JEL: | H41 Q20 |
| Date: | 2009–12–03 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:hhs:gunwpe:0410&r=agr |
| By: | Tansuchat, R.; Chang, C-L.; McAleer, M. (Erasmus Econometric Institute) |
| Abstract: | This paper estimates the long memory volatility model for 16 agricultural commodity futures returns from different futures markets, namely corn, oats, soybeans, soybean meal, soybean oil, wheat, live cattle, cattle feeder, pork, cocoa, coffee, cotton, orange juice, Kansas City wheat, rubber, and palm oil. The class of fractional GARCH models, namely the FIGARCH model of Baillie et al. (1996), FIEGACH model of Bollerslev and Mikkelsen (1996), and FIAPARCH model of Tse (1998), are modelled and compared with the GARCH model of Bollerslev (1986), EGARCH model of Nelson (1991), and APARCH model of Ding et al. (1993). The estimated d parameters, indicating long-term dependence, suggest that fractional integration is found in most of agricultural commodity futures returns series. In addition, the FIGARCH (1,d,1) and FIEGARCH(1,d,1) models are found to outperform their GARCH(1,1) and EGARCH(1,1) counterparts. |
| Keywords: | long memory;agricultural commodity futures;fractional integration;asymmetric;conditional volatility |
| Date: | 2009–11–23 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:dgr:eureir:1765017298&r=agr |
| By: | Birgit Müller (Department of Ecological Modelling, UFZ, Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research - UFZ, Leipzig, Germany); Martin Quaas (Department of Economics, University of Kiel, Germany); Karin Frank (Department of Ecological Modelling, UFZ, Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research - UFZ, Leipzig, Germany); Stefan Baumgärtner (Department of Sustainability Sciences, Leuphana University of Lüneburg, Germany) |
| Abstract: | Rain-index insurance is strongly advocated in many parts of the developing world to help farmers to cope with climatic risk that prevail in (semi-)arid rangelands due to low and highly uncertain rainfall. We present a modeling analysis of how the availability of rain-index insurance affects the sustainability of rangeland management. We show that a rain-index insurance with frequent payos, i.e. a high strike level, leads to the choice of less sustainable grazing management than without insurance available. However, a rain-index insurance with a low to medium strike level enhances the farmer's well-being while not impairing the sustainability of rangeland management. |
| Keywords: | ecological-economic modeling, weather-index insurance, Namibia, grazing management, risk, sustainability, weather-based derivatives |
| JEL: | D81 G22 Q14 Q56 Q57 |
| Date: | 2009–10 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:lue:wpaper:149&r=agr |
| By: | Birol, Ekin; Koundouri, Phoebe; Kountouris, Yiannis |
| Keywords: | Aquifer recharge, Treated wastewater, Total economic value, Choice experiment, Long-run cost benefit analysis, Declining discounting, |
| Date: | 2009 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:fpr:ifprid:908&r=agr |
| By: | Moore, Rebecca (University of Georgia); Provencher, Bill (University of Wisconsin, Madison); Bishop, Richard C. (University of Wisconsin, Madison) |
| Abstract: | This article investigates the value of reducing non-point source pollution in Green Bay, WI. Using stated preference methods, we find the lower bound on the benefits of reducing runoff enough to universally increase water clarity by four feet is greater than $9 million annually. Using a unique survey design, we show that because current water clarity in Green Bay is spatially variable, the value that a household places on this universal improvement depends on the distance of the household's residence from the Bay and on the particular geospatial location of the residence. This has important implications for estimating aggregate benefits. |
| Date: | 2009–05 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:ecl:wisagr:538&r=agr |
| By: | Indrila Guha |
| Abstract: | The study uses an assessment of visitors’ travel costs to estimate the annual recreational value of the Sundarban. It calculates this to be at least INR 15 million (US$ 377,000) for domestic visitors alone. |
| Keywords: | travel costs, tigers, Indian, environmental, population, development, tourists, conservation, protection, domestic visitors, recreational value, sundarban, |
| Date: | 2009 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:ess:wpaper:id:2317&r=agr |
| By: | Deller, Steven C. (University of Wisconsin, Madison-Extension); Williams, David (University of Wisconsin, Madison-Extension) |
| Date: | 2009–08 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:ecl:wisagr:541&r=agr |
| By: | van der Mensbrugghe, Dominique; Osorio Rodarte, Israel; Burns, Andrew; Baffes, John |
| Abstract: | The recent commodity boom was the longest and broadest of the post-World War II period. Although most prices have declined sharply since their mid-2008 peak, they are still considerably higher than 2003, the beginning of the boom. Apart from strong and sustained economic growth, the recent boom was fueled by numerous other factors including low past investment in extractive commodities, weak dollar, fiscal expansion in many countries, and, perhaps, investment fund activity. On the other hand, the diversion of some food commodities to the production of biofuels, adverse weather conditions, global stock declines to historical lows and government policies, including export bans and prohibitive taxes, accelerated the price increases that eventually led to the 2008 rally. This paper concludes that the increased link between energy and non-energy commodity prices, strong demand by developing countries - when the current economic downturn reverses course - and changing weather patterns will be the dominant forces that are likely to shape developments in commodity markets. |
| Keywords: | commodity prices; long-term prospects; global economy |
| JEL: | R13 C68 Q17 O13 J11 |
| Date: | 2009–10–12 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:pra:mprapa:19019&r=agr |
| By: | Joël Houdet (Orée (association) - (-)); Charlotte Pavageau (AgroParisTech ENGREF - (-)); Michel Trommetter (Department of Economics, Ecole Polytechnique - CNRS : UMR7176 - Polytechnique - X, INRA - UMR GAEL INRA); Jacques Weber (CIRAD - Unité de recherche Ressources forestières et politiques publiques) |
| Abstract: | Biodiversity refers to the dynamics of interactions between organisms in changing environments. Within the context of accelerating biodiversity loss worldwide, firms are under increasing pressures from stakeholders to develop appropriate tools to account for the nature and consequences of their actions, inclusive of their influences on ecosystem services used by other agents. This paper presents a two-pronged approach towards accounting for changes in biodiversity and ecosystem services from a business perspective. First, we seek to analyze how Environmental Management Accounting (EMA) may be used by firms to identify and account for the interactions between their activities and biodiversity and ecosystem services (BES). To that end, we use dairy farming as a case study and propose general recommendations regarding accounting for changes in biodiversity and ecosystem services from a management accounting perspective. Secondly, after discussing the corporate reporting implications of the main environmental accounting approaches, we propose the underlying principles and structural components of a Biodiversity Accountability Framework (BAF) which would combine both financial and BES data sets; hence, suggesting the need for changes in business accounting and reporting standards. Because this would imply significant changes in business information systems and corporate rating practices, we also underline the importance of making the associated technological, organizational and institutional innovations financially viable. The BAF should be designed as an information base, coconstructed with stakeholders, for setting up and managing new modes of regulation combining tools for mitigating BES loss and remunerating BES supply. |
| Keywords: | Accounting, business, biodiversity, ecosystem services, indicators, management accounting, financial accounting, reporting, corporate social responsibility, standards, biodiversity accountability framework. |
| Date: | 2009 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:hal:wpaper:hal-00434450_v1&r=agr |
| By: | Corinna Manig; Alessio Moneta |
| Abstract: | Extrinsic motivations like intellectual property protections and fiscal incentives continue to occupy the centre stage in debates on innovation policies. Joseph Schumpeter had, however, argued that the motive to accumulate private property can only explain part of innovative activities. In his view, "the joy of creating, of getting things done" associated with the behavioural traits that "seek out difficulties…and takes delight in ventures" stand out as the most independent factor of behaviour in explaining the process of economic development, especially in early capitalist societies. Taking the case of 'grassroot' innovators in India, we re-examine the motivations behind innovative behaviour. We draw upon the literature on effectance motivation theory to construct operational indicators of extrinsic and intrinsic motivations. Interestingly, we find that pure extrinsic forms of motivation drive only a fraction of individual innovative behaviour. Also, importance of intrinsic motivation in guiding innovative behaviour is found to high when uncertainty is high. We accordingly draw a few policy implications. |
| Keywords: | Food consumption patterns, calorie intake, income elasticity decomposition, Engel curves, method of average derivatives Length 26 pages |
| JEL: | D12 |
| Date: | 2009–11 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:esi:evopap:2009-13&r=agr |
| By: | Nweke, Felix |
| Keywords: | millions fed, Cassava, mosaic virus, mealybug, |
| Date: | 2009 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:fpr:ifprid:912&r=agr |
| By: | Bozic, Marin (University of Wisconsin, Madison); Gould, Brian W. (University of Wisconsin, Madison) |
| Abstract: | There is continuing pressure by various farm groups to attempt to solve the chronic problems in the U.S. dairy industry represented by increased milk price variability, inability to generate positive returns at the farm level, increasing role of dairy exports as an important market for U.S. dairy products, etc. As such it is important for analysts and policy makers obtain an estimate as to how responsive dairy producers are to changing economic and technological conditions. Examples of previous research used to examine supply response in the U.S. dairy sector include LaFrance and deGorter (1985), Chavas and Klemme (1986), Thraen and Hammond (1987), Chavas, Krauss and Jesse (1990), Chavas and Krauss (1990), Yavuz, et al, (1996) and USDA (2007). These analyses are limited in that either they are either fairly dated or they do not account the dynamics that are inherent in the dairy herd expansion/contraction process. The above overview of the dairy industry points to a changing industry as represented by reduced but larger dairy operations, the changing nature of U.S. dairy policy and pricing, production of new types of dairy products, etc. with much of the adjustments have occurred since the above previous analyses were undertaken and may no longer reflect the industries supply characteristics. The present study will incorporate data encompassing the 1975-2007 period and provide an update of the model original developed by Chavas and Klemme (1986). This study has three main objectives: (i) quantify the current supply structure of the U.S. dairy industry, (ii) gain insight into impacts of technological changes that have occurred over the last 25 years, (iii) based on (i) and (ii), generate forecasts of long-run milk supply response to price changes and possible future technological advancements. |
| Date: | 2009–07 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:ecl:wisagr:540&r=agr |