Researchers in this field study decision-making and resource allocation in the production, distribution and consumption of agricultural goods and services. Areas of particular research interest include the allocation and use of land and water resources, climate variability and adaptation, managing risk and uncertainty, resource use externalities, and public goods.  Numerical analysis relies heavily on bio-economic models applied at the farm household, regional and sector levels. Agricultural economics plays an important role in the understanding of development opportunities in less developed countries and in improving rural livelihoods across the globe.