Number: RL31172
Title: The Changing Structure of Agriculture and Rural America: Emerging Opportunities and Challenges
Authors: Tadlock Cowan, Resources, Science, and Industry Division 
Abstract: Several significant trends in the evolving structure of agriculture are discussed in this report: a continuation in the trend toward fewer and larger farms; a potential acceleration of that trend as production shifts to more tightly integrated and vertically coordinated production through supply chains; greater environmental pressures on conventional agricultural production practices stemming from urban and suburban interests; and changing food consumption practices.
Pages: 58
Date: Updated October 30, 2001