ABSTRACT
This chapter attempts to identify the similarities and differences between the cost of production estimates for rice prepared by the five universities and the Economic Research Service (ERS). It focuses on comparing the cost and return components included in developing estimates and estimation procedures, where appropriate. This comparison is followed by some general observations (questions-debatable issues) with respect to these similarities and differences. Information used in developing this chapter was obtained from materials prepared by personnel at ERS; the University of Arkansas; the University of California, Davis; the Louisiana State University; the Mississippi State University; and Texas A&M University. Each university provides short run estimates of the cost of producing rice for farm level planning and decision-making purposes. Gross value of production or gross returns estimates provide some information on the general character of the estimates being provided.
