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Early growing season weather variation, expectation formation and agricultural land allocation decisions in Ethiopia

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  • Musa Hasen Ahmed
  • Wondimagegn Mesfin Tesfaye
  • Franziska Gassmann

Abstract

Using unique crop‐specific data gathered over 7 years, we study if and how maize‐producing farmers in Ethiopia adjust their land allocation decisions in response to pre‐planting‐season weather variations. We show that farmers adjust their land allocation decisions in response to increased temperatures early in the growing season. In addition to quantifying a substantial adaptation margin that has not been documented before, our study also reveals the presence of a weather variation‐induced expansion of maize production into areas that are less suitable for maize cultivation.

Suggested Citation

  • Musa Hasen Ahmed & Wondimagegn Mesfin Tesfaye & Franziska Gassmann, 2023. "Early growing season weather variation, expectation formation and agricultural land allocation decisions in Ethiopia," Journal of Agricultural Economics, Wiley Blackwell, vol. 74(1), pages 255-272, February.
    • Handle: RePEc:bla:jageco:v:74:y:2023:i:1:p:255-272
    DOI: 10.1111/1477-9552.12507
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