This paper analyzes the role of private information in U.S. Forest Service timber auctions. In these auctions, firms bid a per unit price for each timber species. Total bids are computed by multiplying these prices by Forest Service volume estimates, but payments depend on actual volumes harvested. We develop an equilibrium theory for these auctions. We then relate (ex post) data about volume to (ex ante) bids. We show that bidders have private information about volumes of species and use it as predicted by theory. Differences in bidder estimates appear to affect the allocation of tracts, but competition limits information rents.
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Kerr, Suzi & Sanchirico, James & Newell, Richard, 2002.
"Fishing Quota Markets,"
Discussion Papers
dp-02-20, Resources For the Future.
[Downloadable!]
Other versions:
Peter Eso & Lucy White, 2001.
"Precautionary Bidding in Auctions,"
Discussion Papers
1331, Northwestern University, Center for Mathematical Studies in Economics and Management Science.
[Downloadable!]