The Adoption of Reduced Tillage Systems as a Response to Clean Air Regulations

Abstract

Reduced tillage systems are an approved best management practice for reducing particulate matter 10 micrometers in diameter (PM-10) in the Maricopa County, Arizona PM-10 Non-attainment Area. In addition to reducing PM-10, reduced tillage systems may also reduce costs. This thesis uses partial budgets to estimate the costs savings associated with replacing a conventional tillage system with a reduced tillage system. A semi-log function is used to evaluate the relationship between the per acre net benefits of reduced tillage systems and the percentage of land application. Multinomial logit analysis is used to identify the characteristics of adopters of reduced tillage systems. The study revealed that (1) reduced tillage systems generate costs savings between $16.06 to $25.91 per acre, (2) the ex ante adoption rate of reduced tillage systems that do not require capital investments is higher than those systems that do require an investment, and (3) adoption is influenced by the age and education level of the operator, as well as the size of the operation.