Masters Theses

Date of Award

5-2021

Degree Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science

Major

Agricultural and Resource Economics

Major Professor

Karen L. DeLong

Committee Members

Rebecca T. Trout Fryxell, Chris Boyer, Andrew P. Griffith, Kimberly L. Jensen, Charles Martinez

Abstract

This research evaluates the beef cattle industry in terms of horn fly management costs in Tennessee and Texas and beef cattle producer preferences and willingness to pay (WTP) for genomic enhanced expected progeny differences (GE-EPDs). Two surveys were developed to analyze producer perceptions of horn flies and preferences for EPDs and GE-EPDs. Little research exists regarding horn fly management costs or WTP for GE-EPDs, although previous research has explored producer preferences for EPDs. This research found that on average, Tennessee producers spend $9.54 per head for annual horn fly management costs, while Texas producers spend an average of $12.35 per head. Results also show that the average WTP for a bull with EPDs is $2,293.33, while the average WTP for a bull with GE-EPDs is $2,282.34. Results suggests that producers could benefit from additional education regarding horn fly management strategies and GE-EPDs.

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