Cory Walters’ applied research program investigates producer decision-making under risk and uncertainty, with a particular emphasis on how agricultural producers use risk management tools to navigate incomplete or imperfect information. His work evaluates both publicly provided instruments, such as federally subsidized crop insurance, and privately provided strategies, including pre-harvest hedging and other market-based mechanisms.

Dr. Walters’ work bridges academic research, industry application, and policy design, engaging with both public institutions and private partners. He grew up on a grain farm in Montana, where his family produced both winter and spring wheat, canola and lentils—an experience that continues to inform the practical relevance of his research in agricultural risk management and farm decision-making.