Kurt Stephenson

Kurt Stephenson is a Professor in the Department of Agricultural and Applied Economics at Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University (Virginia Tech). He holds a Ph.D. in Economics (University of Nebraska-Lincoln, 1994), M.S. in Agricultural Economics (Virginia Tech, 1988), and B.S. in Economics (Radford University, 1986). His research focuses on environmental and natural resource economics, particularly market-based environmental policies, water resource management, and agricultural nonpoint source pollution control.

• Key Affiliations: College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Virginia Tech
• Committees: Chesapeake Bay Program Scientific and Technical Advisory Committee (2013-2021), Eastern Virginia Groundwater Management Advisory Committee (2020-present)
• Education:
  • Ph.D., Economics, University of Nebraska-Lincoln (1994)
  • M.S., Agricultural Economics, Virginia Tech (1988)
  • B.S., Economics, Radford University (1986)

Research Interests: Stephenson’s work emphasizes water quality trading programs, Chesapeake Bay restoration, legacy nutrient management, and policy evaluation. He explores how market mechanisms like nutrient credit trading can improve compliance with Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) regulations. His studies also address agricultural BMP targeting, wetland/stream mitigation, and the integration of ecosystem services into policy decisions.

Publications Trends: His recent articles focus on TMDL compliance strategies, denitrification bioreactors, and the economic viability of water quality trading systems. He consistently analyzes policy effectiveness in reducing nutrient and sediment loads in Chesapeake Bay watersheds.

• Awards:
  • Sellner Chesapeake Guardian Award (2024, co-recipient)
  • 2005 Teaching Excellence Award
  • Best Theory-Oriented Paper (2000)

Advising/Grants: While specific student names aren’t listed, his work involves collaborative research with institutions like the Chesapeake Bay Program and Virginia Department of Environmental Quality. He actively participates in policy advisory roles and grant-funded projects evaluating environmental programs.

Labs/Teams: Engaged with interdisciplinary teams at Virginia Tech’s College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, focusing on water quality, agricultural sustainability, and ecosystem management.