An econometric model of the barge and rail freight market is developed so that factors which influence barge and rail rates for export-bound grain from Midwest to Mexican Gulf can be better understood. Three-stage least squares method is used to estimate the system of four equations that...

A mathematical programming model of grain transportation is structured such that alternative types of rail shippers and rail rates are represented within an individual region. Shadow prices of solutions are used to assess the values of multi-car grain loading facilities in Iowa and Nebraska by...

Abstract Currently Unavailable.

This study provides additional evidence of the usefulness of mean-variance procedures in the presence of options which can truncate and skew the returns distribution. Using a simulation analysis, price hedging decisions are examined for hog producers when options are available. Mean-variance...

Exports of US grain via ocean vessel are discussed in terms of potential impediments and research issues. Five general areas are examined: (1) ocean-freight rate risk; (2) grain quality; (3) export and import ports; (4) cargo preference; and (5) the Panama Canal. It is concluded that the most...

Risk abatement characteristics of a public sector programme (counter-cyclical payments) and a quasi-private market instrument (crop insurance) are assessed at the farm level. Crop market revenues and insurance payments have strong linkages to pre-planting price and yield conditions, whereas the...

Abstract Currently Unavailable.