Modelling Waikato Farm Nitrogen Discharges for Policy Analysis

Abstract

This study describes the development of bio economic models examining the economic and water quality impact of various proposed policy options in the Upper Waikato catchment. In the first phase nitrogen emissions are determined for representative farming systems using the Overseer nutrient budget model. These model components are integrated into an economic model, which predicts producer responses to various policy options. The second phase determines catchment wide costs and water quality impacts of riparian buffers by combining geographic information system, bio economic modelling and experimental data. The results of the study signals directions for policy initiatives and further analysis exploring policy design and all costs associated with production adjustment.Riparian margins, Non point pollution, Nitrogen, Linear programming, and Environmental policy, Community/Rural/Urban Development, Crop Production/Industries, Environmental Economics and Policy, Farm Management, Health Economics and Policy, Industrial Organization, Land Economics/Use, Livestock Production/Industries, Research Methods/ Statistical Methods, Resource /Energy Economics and Policy,