2008 Annual Report
1a.Objectives (from AD-416)
The objectives of this study are to evaluate the economic impact of pollinators on production costs, crop yield and preservation of natural areas. Specifically, these will include: (a) cost efficiency of pollination by bees;
(b) pollination efficiency;
(c) value of a constant supply of the crop to the market as measured by the value of a stable market to the grower and the value of stable availability to consumers;
(d) value of pollination in preservation/restoration projects; and
(e) value of biodiversity in bees.
1b.Approach (from AD-416)
Methods used for objective (a) and (b) will compare the cost and quality of bee production, pollination, and crop yield, and (c) will include an economic estimate of risk reduction resulting from better pollination systems. Methods used for objective (d) will include an economic estimate of the profitability of wild seed production of plants that require pollination. Where possible, IMPLAN will be applied to conduct regional impact analysis. Estimating the value of objective (e) may be difficult. Economic methods will be applied as appropriate.
3.Progress Report
The collaborator is working on developing an economic evaluation of the importance of the research conducted on blue orchard bees and almond pollination. The project has been initiated, discussions determined the approach, and the report is in preparation. ADODR is monitoring activities to evaluate research progress included conference calls, meetings with the cooperator's personnel, and site visits to field plot locations.
|