This paper analyzes the economic impact of plant-parasitic nematodes in the U.S. potato industry, focusing on how both unanticipated and anticipated yield losses affect producer decisions, market outcomes, and welfare. We use a modified Cournot model and estimate a system of supply and demand equations using Three-Stage Least Squares (3SLS). We simulate scenarios to measure how varying levels of nematode infestation influence producer profits and consumer surplus in the short-run and the long-run. Simulations suggest that reducing nematode damage could yield substantial gains in output and consumer welfare particularly in concentrated markets where strategic producer behavior amplifies these effects. Our findings underscore the need to account for both biological uncertainty and market structure when evaluating pest impacts and designing policy responses.

We conducted an intercept survey with beef cattle farmers using paper and electronic modes to examine administration mode effects. Three outcomes were measured: (1) preferences for H-2A reforms using a discrete choice experiment, (2) responses to closed-ended questions regarding labor, and (3) survey process measures such as completion time and respondent experiences. Results show that closed-ended responses and utility scales were comparable across modes, while mean preference estimates differed. Respondents in the paper mode spent more time, paid closer attention, and reported higher satisfaction. We recommend the paper mode for complex instruments that require greater participant engagement.

This paper examines the performance of smallholder crop farmers across different land ownership categories in Ghana. Using a metafrontier model, the study estimates technical efficiencies and productivity levels among farmers with formal land deeds, those without deeds, and non-landowners. The results show that land, labor, and capital significantly impact crop production across ownership categories, while social capital, income, and demographics influence managerial performance. Farmers with formal land deeds and those cultivating family-owned land exhibited superior production technologies. Enhancing access to extension services, credit, and farmer-based organizations, alongside collaboration with traditional chiefs and family heads, can improve land tenure security and productivity.

We analyzed the determinants and potential of U.S. agricultural exports to South Asian, Southeast Asian, and Southern African countries by employing a stochastic frontier gravity model. Our estimated results suggest that importers’ GDP, institutional quality, globalization level, and participation in Trade and Investment Framework Agreement significantly promote U.S. exports, while geographic distance and landlocked status act as major constraints. The derived technical efficiency scores reveal considerable underperformance of U.S. exports. We recommend that the United States can expand and strengthen its Trade and Investment Framework Agreement, institutional cooperation, interconnectedness, and direct policy focus toward countries with the largest export gaps.

This study examines the determinants of veterinary clinic closures across urban and rural communities in the United States, analyzing a unique longitudinal dataset of over 11,000 veterinary practices. Findings indicate that large-animal clinics are more likely to close than small or mixed-animal practices, especially in rural areas. Larger clinics and those in metropolitan counties have improved survival rates. The presence of local amenities – particularly shopping outlets and higher-quality schools – is associated with lower closure rates. The results highlight the importance of community amenities in supporting veterinary practice sustainability and access to veterinary care.

Using NielsenIQ Homescan data (2012–2022) and a censored QUAIDS system, we estimate U.S. household demand for vitamin supplements across national brands (NBs), premium private labels (PPLs), and standard private labels (SPLs). During COVID-19, consumers’ spending shifted from NBs toward private labels, and brand-tier budget shares differ across socioeconomic groups. Price sensitivity also varies by tier: NBs and SPLs are price elastic, while PPLs are relatively price inelastic. Substitution is strongest between SPLs and NBs. These findings quantify brand-tier competition and inform pricing and positioning strategies in the health retail industry.

Recent crises have increased price volatility, yet farmers’ adoption of forward contracts, futures, options, and price insurance remains low. Since this appears puzzling from a standard expected utility maximizing perspective, we systematically review the literature on the relation between behavioral factors and price hedging. We distinguish behavioral preferences, formally integrated into choice models, from psychological factors, lacking mathematical formalization. Most of the 101 reviewed studies focus on futures and rely on risk aversion assuming expected utility maximization, with limited evidence on behavioral economic drivers. Considering nonclassical preferences and psychological factors in choice models might better capture farmers’ risk management decisions.

Wheat protein is essential to end-use products including bread and noodles. Protein levels vary based on weather, growing conditions, and production practices. This research identifies and quantifies the relationship between wheat prices and protein levels for seven Kansas crop reporting districts during 2001–2023. Results of a quadratic panel regression model demonstrate that local wheat prices are influenced by both (1) the absolute level of wheat protein in the local Crop Reporting District and (2) the local level of wheat protein relative to the overall wheat protein level in the rest of the State.

We investigated the profitability of dairy-beef crossbred steers compared to their native beef counterparts. Using trial data, returns on calf-fed and yearling-fed systems of native beef and beef × dairy steers were evaluated. Beef × dairy steers in calf-fed and yearling-fed systems had greater returns than native beef calf-fed steers even with few carcass quality differences and higher total costs. Native beef yearling-fed steers had the greatest return because of low total costs while revenue remained similar among breed and treatment combinations. Results indicate that beef × dairy steers can be competitive with native beef calf-fed steers, but current economics favor native beef yearling-fed cattle.