positive benefit when both producers and consumers are considered. Even 



though to some degree we are all motivated by self-interest, it is important 



to consider all members of society (even those outside of Montana) in 



setting research priorities. 



In summary, a few research projects will be discussed in light of the 



previous discussion. 



40% Increase in Milk Production Efficiency — The increase in milk 

 production efficiency is an example of general technological 

 advancement and is expected to substantially reduce costs for all 

 producers. It is likely that eventually producers' incomes will be 

 depressed as a result of this technological improvement. 



Development of Redwin Winter Wheat — Redwin wheat is a more specific 



technological advancement and has been adopted in Montana and bordering 

 areas. However, it will not be widely accepted since (1) Redwin is a 

 hard red winter wheat and for most (but not all) practical purposes 

 wheat is one large market, and (2) more moderate climates are less 

 conducive to Redwin production. Montana and bordering winter wheat 

 producers therefore benefited and other wheat producers' incomes were 

 likely depressed due to the development of Redwin. 



Parasite Control and Low Quality Forage Utilization in Range Livestock — 

 Technological advancement in parasite control and utilization of low 

 quality forages in the Southeastern U.S. is another example of specific 

 technological advancement which has reduced the cost of beef production 

 in that region. While southeastern producers have benefited, other 

 producers such as those in Montana have lost some comparative advantage 

 and suffered from that development. 



