Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: Irrigation can enhance yields and serve as a climate adaptation strategy. In the Southeastern U.S., where water resources are relatively abundant, irrigation has experienced significant growth. However, despite the region’s capacity for further expansion, irrigation adoption rates remain low. This study estimates the influence of peer effects on farmers’ decisions to adopt irrigation in South Carolina, using a unique parcel-level dataset on irrigation withdrawals. We find that adoption increases as farmers observe more peer adopting irrigation – social interactions – and as peers’ pumping increases, such as during drought periods, when the benefits of irrigation become more visible, facilitating social learning.
Authors: Dawoon Jeong, Gabriela Perez-Quesada
Institutions: Clemson University, University of Tennessee at Knoxville
Language: English
Domain: Life Sciences
SDGs: Zero hunger, Climate action
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $2,600
OpenAlex ID: W7123351572