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Long-Run Structural and Productivity Change in U.S. Agriculture: Effects of Prices and Policies

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  • Evenson, Robert E.
  • Huffman, Wallace E.

Abstract

This paper presents (1) a conceptual framework for structural change when farms may be multiproduct or specialized and (2) an econometrics examination of causes of structural and total factor productivity (TFP) change for U.S. agriculture. Farm size, farm specialization, and part-time farming are the structural dimension emphasized, and they become potential channels to TFP change. Using state aggregate data starting in 1950, we conclude that input prices, public and private research, public extension, and government commodity programs have directly and indirectly caused change in U.S. farm structure and TFP. Our results suggest that changes in farm size, however, have been dominated by input price changes rather than by technology or government programs.

Suggested Citation

  • Evenson, Robert E. & Huffman, Wallace E., 1997. "Long-Run Structural and Productivity Change in U.S. Agriculture: Effects of Prices and Policies," Center Discussion Papers 28518, Yale University, Economic Growth Center.
    • Handle: RePEc:ags:yaleeg:28518
    DOI: 10.22004/ag.econ.28518
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    1. Villano, Renato & Fleming, Euan & Fleming, Pauline, 2010. "Evidence of farm-level synergies in mixed-farming systems in the Australian Wheat-Sheep Zone," Agricultural Systems, Elsevier, vol. 103(3), pages 146-152, March.

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