22 pages, This paper presents direct evidence on the impact of a specific extension program that is aimed at promoting the adoption of varieties resistant to the soybean cyst nematode (SCN), specifically the Iowa State University SCN-Resistant Soybean Variety Trials. We use two data sources: experimental data from these variety trials and a rich proprietary dataset on farmers’ seed purchases. Combining these data, we estimate the value of soybean cyst nematode-resistant variety availability, and the associated variety trials that provide information on their performance to farmers and seed companies. Given the scope and diffusion of this extension program, the focus of the analysis is on Iowa and northern Illinois over the period 2011–2016. Farmers’ seed choices are modeled in a discrete choice framework, specifically a one-level nested logit model. Using the estimated demand model, we find farmers’ marginal willingness to pay for soybean cyst nematode-resistant varieties, and for related extension information provided by the Iowa State University SCN-Resistant Soybean Variety Trials program, to be large. These results are confirmed by counterfactual analyses showing that, over the six-year period and region of the study, the total ex post welfare change associated with the existence of, and information about, SCN-resistant seeds is about $478 million. About one-third of this surplus is captured by seed suppliers, and two-thirds accrues to farmers.
Inwood, Shoshanah (author), Becot, Florence (author), Bjornestad, Andrea (author), Henning-Smith, Carrie (author), Alberth, Andrew (author), and The Ohio State University
South Dakota State University
University of Minnesota
Format:
Online journal article
Publication Date:
2019-12-17
Published:
United States: Extension Journal, Inc.
Location:
Agricultural Communications Documentation Center, Funk Library, University of Illinois Box: 124 Document Number: D11230
7 pages, via online journal, A number of current events are exacerbating farm stress. Extension and farm organizations have mobilized responses to an emerging mental health crisis among farmers. To evaluate these responses, we conducted an online scan of resources to present a baseline typology of current mental health programs and response efforts in the 12-state Extension North Central Region. We classified responses by type of program, target audience, and delivery format. We identified the need to train mental health counselors and state suicide hotline responders on farm issues and farm culture.
Wilson, M.C. (author / USDA, Office of Cooperative Extension Work, Extension Studies) and USDA, Office of Cooperative Extension Work, Extension Studies
Format:
Report
Publication Date:
unknown
Published:
USA
Location:
Agricultural Communications Documentation Center, Funk Library, University of Illinois Box: 44 Document Number: B05359
Notes:
James F. Evans Collection, Washington, D.C. : United States Department of Agriculture, 1926. 20 p. (Department Bulletin no. 1384), With a background of 10 years of cooperative extension work under the Smith-Lever Act, extension administrators and supervisors everywhere are seeking definite information upon which to base decisions affecting the future conduct of the work. Facts rather than opinions are needed. The field study reported in this bulletin was made by the Office of Cooperative Extension Work, in cooperation with the State extension services of Iowa, New York, Colorado, and California. Considerable light is thrown upon concrete problems concerning which extension leaders have long desired reliable information. The determination, in any adequate degree, of the results of extension teaching is a most complex matter. Only some of the most obvious results are here shown. It is hoped the present study mat be the basis for more comprehensive studies in the future. (original)
