NC State Economist
2020 Economic Outlook: Down or Just Slowdown?
Indicators suggest growth will continue, albeit more slowly than in 2019.
North Carolinians Benefit from Water Pollution Credit Trading
This article explores how water quality markets help North Carolina reduce the cost of protecting its waters, while also discussing challenges facing these markets and potential improvements.
The Affect of Medicaid Expansions on the Agricultural Labor Supply
Any state in which agriculture is a large industry should consider how an ACA Medicaid expansion would increase the traditionally low rates of agricultural workers’ health insurance coverage which could affect the overall labor supply.
Hemp Law 101: The Regulation of Industrial Hemp
Topics include: the legal history of hemp; the need to clarify laws for farmers, producers and consumers; the impact of the 2018 Farm Bill; and remaining limitations.
Blockchain in the Food Supply Chain
This issue of the NC State Economist answers the question: What is blockchain and how does it affect agriculture?
The 2018 Farm Bill: Much Debate, More of the Same
This issue of the NC State Economist explores changes to ARC, the Conservation program, and much more.
2019 Economic Outlook: The Late Innings of Growth?
With decade-low unemployment and accelerating labor productivity – but also a trade war with China and a sputtering stock market – where will our focus lie when we look back on 2018? In this NC State Economist, Mike Walden unpacks the top economic issues and opportunities of 2018, with a look ahead to 2019.
Should I Stay or Should I Go: Coal Ash in North Carolina
Coal has seen a recent, rapid decline as a source of electricity in North Carolina. Unfortunately, coal’s legacy lives on in ash ponds and landfills scattered across the state. In this NC State Economist, we offer an economist’s perspective on North Carolina’s coal ash challenges – and potential solutions.
Impacts of the USDA Broadband Loan and Grant Programs: Estimating Rate of Return
How much does publicly-funded infrastructure stimulate local economic performance? This broader debate comes into focus via research that estimates the relative benefits and costs of federal efforts to promote broadband in rural areas.
Corn Basis Determines Impact of Out-of-state Corn on Animal Ag Profits
With a deficit of feed grain to nourish North Carolina’s “tails and feathers” production – hogs, broiler chickens and turkeys – the profitability of our state’s livestock industry hinges on adequate, reliable and low-cost out-of-state sources for corn.