Dr. Torres’ background combines
field experience in agriculture with theoretical and applied research on
agricultural economics. She has worked on projects looking at the impact of
marketing choices on technology adoption for fruit and vegetable growers; the
economic implications of social capital on entrepreneurship; and the role of
community support on the resilience of small business after disasters.
Dr. Torres' appointment in
Horticulture and Landscape Architecture & Agricultural Economics allows her
to use economic analysis to support the economic viability of the horticulture
industry. Her research focuses on the intersection
between the horticulture industry and marketing decisions. Her goal is to conduct innovative outreach and applied
research in Specialty Crops Marketing, with the end of promoting economic
sustainability for horticultural businesses.
Dr. Torres is currently working on
a project evaluating the market, economics, and potential barriers to produce
export-quality dried apricots from smallholders of southern Tajikistan. She is
also working on evaluating the adoption of solar dehydrator for selected dried
specialty crops in Indiana and Georgia. Lastly, she is collecting foundational
data and establishing long-term pricing reports for Indiana farmers' markets.