Degree

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Department

Department of Agricultural Economics & Agribusiness

Document Type

Dissertation

Abstract

This paper explores how regional economies respond to external shocks such as natural disasters, socioeconomic vulnerabilities, and amenity factors through three chapters. These studies aim to identify the mechanisms by which external disturbances have an impact on regional industries and development.

The first chapter quantifies the economic impacts of hurricanes across industry sectors using 15 years of county-level data in the United States. By categorizing regional economies into agriculture, manufacturing, trade, and services, it examines how hurricane damage affects employment and GDP by sector, including the delayed effects of short- and medium-term hurricanes.

The second chapter constructs a comprehensive community vulnerability index (CCVI) that integrates vulnerabilities at the business and public levels beyond the private (household) level of a region to measure regional vulnerability. Extending the concept from existing indices that focus mainly on household-level socioeconomic factors, this new framework integrates the dimensions of the business and public sectors to provide a more holistic and place-based assessment of community vulnerability. It also explores the potential applicability of the CCVI by considering exposure to climate-related hazards, thereby constructing a Climate-Enhanced Comprehensive Community Vulnerability Index (CE-CCVI). This chapter is expected to be applicable to sectoral planning and response strategies based on regional vulnerability in regions with varying levels of vulnerability.

The third chapter examines the effects of both natural and man-made amenities and disamenities on regional economic performance with respect to population, employment, and income. The study shows that amenities support development, while pollution and natural disasters hinder development. This contrast highlights the dual role of these factors in shaping regional performance. Finally, this chapter explores the key determinants of regional growth as shaped by population scale and proximity to urban areas.

This collection of studies contributes to a comprehensive understanding of regional economic vulnerability and resilience. By integrating the analysis of industry specific-impacts of disasters, the construction of a comprehensive regional vulnerability index, and the discussion of amenities and disamenities as a driver of regional growth, this paper concretizes the impact of external shocks on the regional economy and provides a basis for designing policies for various exogenous factors.

Date

7-15-2025

Committee Chair

Fannin, J. Matthew

DOI

10.31390/gradschool_dissertations.6864

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Available for download on Friday, July 14, 2028

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