Linkages between the Farm Sector and the Local Nonfarm Economy: Another Look at Rural Development

Abstract

Typically, rural development and agricultural policy specialists have viewed the problems of the rural economy and the farm sector in virtual isolation. Given the importance of nonfarm income to farm families, there is some evidence that a strengthening of the nonfarm economy can affect agriculture. It is suggested here that rural labor models are necessary if these linkages are to be understood.