Etaferahu Takele

Extension and research programs are in production economics, financial analysis and investment analysis for crop production in southern California. Research programs have included (i) analyzing new crops economics and potential profitability using cost of production and marketing analyses (ii) Comparing alternative production practices analyzing profitability, and extension (iii) selecting optimum input combination from alternative production practices. Previous work also included analysis of the optimum irrigation levels under various water cost situations, evaluated the economic feasibility of non-traditional inputs such as mulch and sludge in crop production for purpose of developing environmentally suitable use for them. Extension programs have emphasized on profitable enterprise selection, financial and risk management.  Specific programs also include assisting small farms and minority clientele in identifying high return new and specialty crops.  Program emphasizes a multidisciplinary team approach involving several scientists and economists within the UC as well as integrates with other states such as the Western Region Risk Management Program.