POLICY GOALS AND THE DESIGN OF FARM PROGRAMS: AN EVALUATION OF FAIR

Evaluating the performance of our current farm programs initially requires a specification of policy goals. In performing this exercise, we conclude that the goals have changed, much like the policies have changed. We then evaluate whether the current set of policies will fulfill the goals in a politically acceptable manner. It is concluded that this is questionable, at least in the short run. Moreover, it is concluded that, regardless of what is done in policy terms, the farm structure will continue to undergo dramatic change. Policies will affect the rate of change in structure, but not the direction which will continue toward fewer but larger integrated farms. Goals of Farm Policy In preparing this paper, we interviewed key committee staff for the House and Senate Agriculture Committees. In one case, a leading congressperson was involved in a portion of the interview. In all instances, the staff interviewed were in leadership positions during the development of the 1996 Farm Bill (FAIR), although not necessarily in the same position as they currently occupy. Those interviewed were supplied the questions to be discussed three days in advance.1 Future Policy Goals Each of the respondents was asked, “What are the top goals that you associate with U.S. farm policy over the next five years? ” The number of goals was limited to five per respondent so as to 2provide a relatively uniform weighting across those interviewed. The following 17 goals were identified by the Congressional leaders