Date of Award

8-2026

Degree Type

Report

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Department

Applied Economics

Committee Chair(s)

Ryan Larsen (Committee Chair)

Committee

Ryan Larsen

Committee

Ryan Feuz

Committee

Brandon Willis

Abstract

Utah farmers face significant financial and agronomic challenges when transitioning into organic forage and grain production. The state’s high-desert climate, alkaline soils, and limited irrigation water make organic production more expensive and riskier than in many other regions.

This study evaluates a ten-year rotation built around alfalfa, which acts as a natural nitrogen engine for the system. Because alfalfa fixes large amounts of nitrogen, it reduces fertilizer costs for later crops such as organic corn. However, farmers must first survive the three-year transition period, during which they must follow organic rules but cannot sell their crops at organic prices.

Using real Utah price data, custom hire rates, and USDA cost estimates, this research assesses whether organic price premiums are high enough to make the system profitable over time. Two nutrient management strategies are compared: one relying on purchased compost and one using locally sourced manure. The results show that integrating manure significantly improves profitability, while reliance on retail compost increases financial risk. These findings provide Utah specific insights to help farmers and policymakers understand the economic realities of organic production in the region.

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