To better understand the motivations of landowners, specifically farmers, to participate in programs that improve wildlife habitat and water quality in the region. The LCC is working with U.S. Geological Survey to evaluate factors influencing landowners’ enrollment in U.S. Department of Agriculture programs that improve water quality by reducing sedimentation and nutrient loading, and, landowners’ incentives to enter into sustainable agricultural systems. The outcomes of this study will provide insight into designing and developing programs, practices and messages that encourage broader participation in conservation programs and sustainable practices within the agricultural community. The long-term objectives of the project are to better understand agriculture producers’ and other landowners’ attitudes toward and motivations for participating in conservation programs directed at improving water quality, wildlife and wildlife habitat. This proposal will complete focus group research as the first phase of longer term research. In subsequent years, and contingent upon available funding from the LCC, a closed-ended social survey targeting agricultural producers and other landowners in the LCC will be completed that will allow a quantitative assessment of attitudes and motivations. Initial focus groups will be held in spring/summer 2013, and final analysis is expected in summer 2014. In subsequent years, contingent upon available funding, a closed-ended social survey targeting agricultural producers and other landowners in the LCC may be completed that will allow a more quantitative assessment of attitudes and motivations.
