Farm Level Systems Models
I have developed several farm level systems models in cooperation with animal and crop scientists. The models
were used to assist with research design and evaluation, analysis of the effects of agricultural policy
alternatives, and farm extension. They were used to analyze issues related to warble and horn fly control on
beef cattle, drought mitigation in Saskatchewan, economic value of extension and research information,
economics of foreign cattle breeds in western Canada, land prices in Saskatchewan, and technology transfer in
Alberta. Those models are now out-of-date but their structural design and research-based content have been
utilized in other, more modern models.
Several papers on the design and use of these farm level systemsmodels have been published as well as
experiences working with other agricultural scientists in the conduct of interdisciplinary research. Two
review papers on agricultural interdisciplinary research in Canada and the use of farm level systems models
in Canada have been published in the Canadian Journal of Agricultural Economics.