Economic Returns to Boll Weevil Eradication

Gerald A. Carlson, Glen Sappie and Michael Hammig

No 308080, Agricultural Economic Reports from United States Department of Agriculture, Economic Research Service

Abstract: A cotton boll weevil eradication program in North and South Carolina during 1978-87 achieved a very high rate of return, mainly from increased yields, lower pesticide spending, and added value of cotton land. This study evaluates economic returns of a pest control program encompassing a large geographical area and the joint efforts of farmers and public agencies, in contrast to pest control efforts by individuals, which can be less successful. The eradication program yielded an annual rate of return of 187 percent for farmers; 97 percent when all public costs are included. Fewer applications of pesticides following eradication also benefit the environment.

Keywords: Agricultural and Food Policy; Crop Production/Industries; Productivity Analysis; Risk and Uncertainty (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Pages: 35
Date: 1989-09
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Citations: View citations in EconPapers (9)

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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:ags:uerser:308080

DOI: 10.22004/ag.econ.308080

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