The Cotton Acreage Effects of Boll Weevil Eradication: A County-Level Analysis
Posted: 23 Oct 2000
Abstract
The success of the Boll Weevil Eradication (BWE) Program is believed to be one factor underlying the recent increase in cotton acreage in the Southeast. We find weak evidence that the initial, eradication phase of the BWE program decreases cotton acreage, and strong evidence that the second, maintenance phase of the program increases acreage. The full benefits associated with a BWE program may not become apparent until acreage adjustments occur, four to five years after program initiation. Our results indicate that for a representative sample county neglecting acreage effects may lead to underestimation of BWE program net benefits by 9 percent-12 percent. Pest Management (Ipm)
Keywords: Acreage Effects And Policy Evaluation, Boll Weevil Eradication Program, Cotton, Integrated
JEL Classification: Q10
Suggested Citation: Suggested Citation