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Farm Computer Adoption in the Great Plains

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  28 April 2015

Dana L. Hoag
Affiliation:
Department of Agricultural and Resource Economies, Colorado State University, Fort Collins
James C. Ascough II
Affiliation:
USDA-Agricultural Research Service, Fort Collins, Colorado
W. Marshall Frasier
Affiliation:
Department of Agricultural and Resource Economies, Colorado State University, Fort Collins

Abstract

Computers change rapidly, yet the last survey on computer use in agriculture was in 1991. We surveyed Great Plains producers in 1995 and used logit analysis to characterize adopters and non-adopters. About 37% of these producers use computers which is consistent with the general population. We confirmed previous surveys emphasizing the importance of education, age/experience, and other farm characteristics on adoption. However, we also found that education and experience may no longer be a significant influence. Future research and education could focus on when and where computers are most needed, and therefore when adoption is most appropriate.

Type
Articles
Copyright
Copyright © Southern Agricultural Economics Association 1999

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