“Safer to plant corn and beans”? Navigating the challenges and opportunities of agricultural diversification in the U.S. Corn Belt

Rebecca Traldi (), Lauren Asprooth, Emily M. Usher, Kristin Floress, J. Gordon Arbuckle, Megan Baskerville, Sarah P. Church, Ken Genskow, Seth Harden, Elizabeth T. Maynard, Aaron William Thompson, Ariana P. Torres and Linda S. Prokopy
Additional contact information
Rebecca Traldi: Purdue University
Lauren Asprooth: Purdue University
Emily M. Usher: Purdue University
Kristin Floress: USDA Forest Service
J. Gordon Arbuckle: Iowa State University
Megan Baskerville: The Nature Conservancy
Sarah P. Church: Montana State University
Ken Genskow: University of Wisconsin-Madison
Seth Harden: The Nature Conservancy
Elizabeth T. Maynard: Purdue University
Aaron William Thompson: Purdue University
Ariana P. Torres: Purdue University
Linda S. Prokopy: Purdue University

Agriculture and Human Values, 2024, vol. 41, issue 4, No 24, 1687-1706

Abstract: Abstract Agricultural diversification in the Midwestern Corn Belt has the potential to improve socioeconomic and environmental outcomes by buffering farmers from environmental and economic shocks and improving soil, water, and air quality. However, complex barriers related to agricultural markets, individual behavior, social norms, and government policy constrain diversification in this region. This study examines farmer perspectives regarding the challenges and opportunities for both corn and soybean production and agricultural diversification strategies. We analyze data from 20 focus groups with 100 participants conducted in Indiana, Illinois, and Iowa through a combined inductive and deductive approach, drawing upon interpretive grounded theory. Our results suggest that when identifying challenges and opportunities, participants center economics and market considerations, particularly income, productivity, and market access. These themes are emphasized both as benefits of the current corn-soybean system, as well as challenges for diversification. Additionally, logistical, resource and behavioral hurdles– including the comparative difficulty and time required to diversify, and constraints in accessing land, labor, and technical support– are emphasized by participants as key barriers to diversification. Agricultural policies shape these challenges, enhancing the comparative advantage and decreasing the risk of producing corn and soybeans as compared to diversified products. Meanwhile, alternative marketing arrangements, farmer networks, family relationships, and improved soil health are highlighted as important opportunities for diversification. We contextualize our findings within the theories of reasoned action and diffusion of innovation, and explore their implications for farmer engagement, markets, and agricultural policy, and the development of additional resources for business and technical support.

Keywords: Agriculture; Diversification; Corn Belt; Qualitative (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2024
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DOI: 10.1007/s10460-024-10570-7

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