Understanding Factors Influencing Farmers' Engagement in Watershed Management Activities

Studies have pointed to a positive relationship between farmers' active engagement in watershed management (WM) and soil water conservation practice adoption. If involvement WM leads more conservation, what predicts participation? This study seeks answer that question through binomial logistic regression analysis of data from survey 6,006 Iowa farmers conducted support the implementation Nutrient Reduction Strategy (NRS). Results indicate public private sector information sources, awareness attitudes regarding nutrient loss reduction strategies, farm contiguity bodies, cost-share technical assistance were predictors WM, while lower agronomic self-efficacy, press as an source, greater age, higher sales negative. Findings point several potential actions improve farmer WM: (1) effectively engage with disseminate about benefits (2) increase outreach larger-scale farmers, (3) focus on capacity building. Further, continued emphasis related NRS actions, such management, may guide efforts recruit into groups help outcomes.