A FARM-LEVEL ANALYSIS OF SPECIALTY CROP PRODUCTION IN KENTUCKY

• Main Author: Green, Daniel C.
• Format: Others
• Published: UKnowledge 2001
• Online Access: http://uknowledge.uky.edu/gradschool_theses/179; http://uknowledge.uky.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1181&context=gradschool_theses

Special purpose crops are those with traits designed to meet the specificdemands of an end user. A mean-variance (E-V) mathematical programming modeland sensitivity analysis are used to quantify and discuss the potential net returns andrisk associated with the adoption of special purpose crops at the farm level.Furthermore, a spreadsheet-based decision aid is developed to assist farmers in thedecision of whether or not to produce high-oil corn on their operation.Results from this study indicate that the profitability of high-oil corn is verymarginal, dependent upon the ability of the crop to yield as well as conventional corn,and gain significant premiums. The potential of marketing this crop through aproducer-owned cooperative seems promising.