Semester of Graduation
Fall 2025
Degree
Master of Science (MS)
Department
Department of Agricultural Economics & Agribusiness
Document Type
Thesis
Abstract
This paper analyzes beef cattle producers’ preferences and willingness to pay for market-available production practices and technologies. Primary data was collected via an electronic survey with mostly Louisiana producers. A discrete choice experiment (DCE) highlights the tradeoffs between the production practices and technologies presented in the study. Average profit margin per calf is expected to influence the operation’s adoption capacity and producers’ management decisions; ultimately, impacting the likelihood of adoption. Summary results correlate with previous literature in that most cow-calf operators in the region are small-scale, with most income dependence coming from off-farm. As a result, adoption decisions are driven by the type of service and potential return. In this study, reproductive services, estrus synchronization with a natural service insemination, vaccinations, and nutritional practices all expressed a strong positive influence on a producer’s decision to adopt a bundle of technologies. Estrus synchronization with artificial insemination (AI) and forage tests displayed weak evidence for producers whose profit margins were known. However, producers consistently preferred and had the largest willingness-to-pay (WTP) for reproductive services and full-year nutritional programs. By identifying trends within the population, this study contributes to developing targeted extension programs, policies, and incentives to enhance technology adoption rates among small cow-calf producers.
Date
11-14-2025
Recommended Citation
Thrasher, Mattie G., "Louisiana Cattle Producers' Willingness to Pay For Alternative Management Practices" (2025). LSU Master's Theses. 6224.
https://repository.lsu.edu/gradschool_theses/6224
Committee Chair
Fannin, Matthew J.