A demand analysis of spring cantaloupes

Published in 1971

Spring cantaloupes for. United States markets are produced in Arizona, California, Mexico, and Texas. Arizona is the largest producer of cantaloupes. Melon growers in Arizona are confronted with competition from the other spring producing areas. This separation of markets results in seasonal variation-in the timing of production from each area in terms of quantities marketed and farm prices. An overlapping of harvesting periods usually exists between these regions for each season which results in this interregional competition. Cantaloupes are highly perishable and can be stored for only very short periods of time. These characteristics of spring cantaloupe production make it particularly advantageous for producers and handlers to be aware of the exact relationship between the quantity of cantaloupes shipped and prices. Thus, the objective of this thesis was to measure the quantity-price relationship for spring cantaloupes in the United States from which estimates and forecasts could be made. This type study also provides implications for supply control or supply expansion. The study found the demand for spring cantaloupes to be highly elastic regardless of the source of melon shipments. The major implication is that spring melon production should be expanded in all producing regions in order that total revenue to the industry will be maximized.

AZU_TD_BOX53_E9791_1971_129.pdf (3.02 MB)

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