Published online by Cambridge University Press: 28 April 2015
The soybean economy experienced balanced growth in both total demand and total supply since the early 1940's, but in recent years encountered excess production. Since the soybean economy is effectively interdependent with that of corn, cotton, and rice, programs for these commodities must be tailored to current and potential conditions relating to soybeans. Detailed analyses of sources of increased production, of associated inter-regional effects, and of production alternatives in the soybean area are needed to provide basic information for formulation of new programs. My primary purpose is to discuss the need for expanded research on soybean production patterns. However, most of the emphasis, herein is on developing a comprehensive information framework as an initial step to accomplish the research task.