How to Make Agricultural and Resource Economics More Relevant, Interesting, and Efficient

As the Journal of Agricultural and Resource Economics marks 50 years, this article assesses the future relevance of the agricultural and resource economics profession. We analyze the evolution and current state of the field, its strengths and weaknesses, and propose strategies for enhancement. To remain vital, the discipline must increase its policy impact, embrace interdisciplinary collaborations, modernize curricula with data science and behavioral economics, and better communicate its value to students and society. We argue that focusing on societal contributions, adapting pedagogy, and engaging with emerging global challenges are crucial for the field’s continued success and relevance.