John C. Foltz

Evaluation of Factors Influencing Student Class Attendance and Performance

This study quantifies the effects of student behavior, teacher attributes, and course characteristics on class attendance and performance. Several notable factors that influence attendance and grades are motivation, prior grade point average (GPA), self-financing by students, hours worked on jobs, quality of teaching, and nature of class lectures. This study provides strong empirical evidence of the positive influence of class attendance on student performance. Copyright 1996, Oxford University Press.

Multiattribute Assessment of Alternative Cropping Systems

Multiattribute rankings of seventy-two alternative midwestern cropping systems involving corn, soybeans, and alfalfa hay are analyzed from profitability and environmental quality perspectives. Environmental consequences are simulated using EPIC and GLEAMS, and profitability is based on budget analysis. Results are analyzed using an algorithm based on multiattribute decision theory. A corn-soybean rotation using low input levels and minimum tillage on high-productivity soil, and continuous corn using low input levels and minimum tillage on low-productivity soil are in the preferred set regardless of whether profits or preserving the environment is the first priority for the decision maker.

CONSUMER PERCEPTIONS OF TROUT AS A FOOD ITEM

The impacts of socioeconomic/demographic characteristics, experiences and preferences of consumers on trout purchasing decisions were estimated using Probit and Ordered Probit regression techniques. Data from a survey of consumer purchasing behavior and personal attributes were used to deduce factors that led to either a high or low likelihood of purchasing trout products. Analysis of data pertaining to whole trout and value-added products yielded consistently different characteristics of consumers who show a high affinity toward purchasing one or more of such products. Results from these analyses were used to suggest techniques for marketing whole trout and value-added trout products to specific segments of the consumer population.

U.S. opportunities in China’s frozen french fry market

International trade of processed potatoes, especially frozen french fry exports, has become an important part of the US potato industry. In China, one of the world’s biggest potato producing countries, consumption of US frozen french fries has significantly increased since the late 1980’s. By employing economic theory and econometric techniques, this study evaluates China’s current frozen french fry market and predicts its future development.Export demand models are developed for US frozen french fries in Greater China (Mainland China, Hong Kong, and Taiwan). The study finds that US foreign direct investment and fast food restaurants in China have great influence on the market demand for US frozen french fries. Other variables in the model include price of US frozen french fry exports, consumer income, population, price of substitutes, and trade barriers.The study forecasts that Mainland China’s frozen fry imports will exceed Taiwan and Hong Kong after year 2000. In 2005, US frozen french fry exports will increase to 227,000 tons to China, and 454,000 tons to Greater China. Although there may be some challenges, China’s market provides opportunities for the US potato industry.

Management of a Cooperative Bargaining Association: A Case in the Pacific Northwest Asparagus Industry

Bargaining cooperatives are formed and operated with the primary goal of providing countervailing market power for many small producers faced with selling their product to a few large buyers. This case study outlines the management challenges encountered in organizing and managing a bargaining association to represent Washington and Oregon asparagus growers in contract negotiations with asparagus buyers. Industry events and changing marketing conditions leading to a management crisis that threatened survival of the cooperative are outlined. The case introduces relationships between fresh and processed market segments in the produce industry that must be carefully incorporated into a successful management strategy for a bargaining cooperative.

A factor analysis of the product and service attributes offered by western nursery stock suppliers

Survey data from 311 garden centers, landscapers, and combined garden center|landscaping firms in selected western US trade centers were factor analyzed. Six first-order factors of product and service attributes were identified: plant selection, product information, supplier services and knowledge, advertising and promotion, plant quality, and ordering services. These six first-order factors were collapsed into three second-order factors: buyer-oriented services, buyer perception of supplier reputation, and sales support. These classifications of plant supplier attributes can be incorporated by the astute supplier into a successful business strategy.

Producer Attitudes Regarding Timothy Hay Production in Northern Idaho and the Surrounding Region

ABSTRACT Perennial hay crops on a large scale and as a major source of income are new to northern Idaho farmers. These crops can make an important contribution to erosion control and sustainability in this region that has soil erosion rates amongst the highest in the country. This study evaluated the current situation and future perceptions about hay production and marketing using a farm survey. Results indicated that growers in northern Idaho were optimistic about hay production, particularly timothy, by committing to a possible future increase in production. The current level of hay production, presence of a hay compressor nearby, priority of hay production, and contract availability are important factors influencing future hay production. More commitment needs to be made by producers who are willing to grow good-quality hay. Growers need to consider production timelines, targeting markets, and quality specifications before making such a commitment.

Doctoral Program Characteristics and Rankings in Agricultural Economics

A 1989 survey of 30 agricultural economics departments that offer Ph.D. programs indicated a diversity of requirements with 93 and 73 percent requiring microeconomic and macro-economic examinations, respectively. The average Ph.D. program required 4.6 years, but varied from three to eight years to complete, depending on the university. A longer Ph.D. program was found to be correlated with a more highly ranked department.

The market for consultants in the Idaho potato industry

Idaho potato growers and consultants were surveyed to analyze the market for consulting services. Potato growers use three types of technical consultants to improve the profitability of their operations: public consultants, industry consultants, and independent consultants. Growers rated independent consultants most reliable and were most satisfied with industry consultants. Growers rated their own records as the most valuable sources of information for making production, marketing and financial decisions. Consultants were most widely used in production decisions. Pest identification and control was the most commonly offered service by Idaho consultants. Growers who were satisfied with previous use of independent consultants were more likely to continue to use consulting services. Consultants are generally providing the types of services demanded by growers. The largest unmet needs are for consulting services in marketing, business planning and storage management.