Bt corn offers a powerful tool to control European corn borers and some other pests. Because pest infestations and farming practices differ across the Corn Belt, economic benefits also differ. This research estimates the value of Bt corn across the Corn Belt. Results identify areas where Bt...

Child malnutrition is a problem that poses social and economic costs to individuals, households, communities, and nations, like Bolivia. Childhood malnutrition can be reduced through effective policy and health interventions such as those of the Consejo de Salud Rural Andino (CSRA) in Montero,...

Economic analyses show that without cost reductions, Areawide Pest Management for corn rootworm control is not cost effective in Illinois/Indiana where a variant form of the western corn rootworm exists. This paper examines strategies for reducing scouting/costs and determining the minimal...

U.S. farmers' share of world soybean exports has declined, while Brazil and Argentina are gaining. There is much debate concerning the competitive advantage of U.S. versus Latin American soybean producers. A detailed analysis of soybean production costs under different systems and technologies...

Planting Bt corn on large areas may lead to European corn borer (ECB) resistance to Bt. Scientists recommend planting a non-Bt corn refuge as part of a resistance management strategy. Different refuge configurations may impact farm profits differently. This paper analyzes the economics of...

The emergence of a corn rootworm "variant" has reduced the effectiveness of a corn-soybean rotation in some areas of Indiana. This research identifies potential control alternatives. Empirical results suggest that younger, more educated managers of larger farms would be the most likely to adopt...

In 1996, the USDA initiated research in three Midwestern locations to control corn rootworms with a scouting and aerial spraying program. The preliminary economic results suggest that without a modest subsidy, an areawide pest management approach is not as economical as the use of soil insecticides

This study explores the prevalence and determinants of brand loyalty for agricultural input products. Results suggest that loyalty for both expendable and capital inputs is high among commercial farmers. Farmer attitudes, beliefs, and some demographic characteristics are useful identifiers of...