Better Targeting, Better Outcomes
Economic Research Service Economic Brief Number 2, March 2006
6 Pages Posted: 24 Feb 2016
Date Written: March 22, 2006
Abstract
While it is common knowledge that not all agricultural lands have the same productive capacity, it is increasingly recognized that the environmental impacts of agricultural production also differ. To best achieve conservation goals, programs can target those farms and fields where conservation efforts are likely to generate the most profound or widespread environmental benefits for a given program size.
Targeting is a means of choosing which offers to accept. Targeting helps programs achieve multiple objectives.Targeting relies on data, models, and opinions. Targeting for environmental benefits may involve geography.Targeting can increase benefits and reduce costs. Targeting has improved program performance, but could do more.
Keywords: targeting, agricultural conservation, cost benefit, multiple objectives
JEL Classification: Q28, Q24
Suggested Citation: Suggested Citation