Enrolling conservation buffers in the CRP

Landowner willingness to participate in buffer programs such as the Conservation Reserve Program is explored in the context of the Total Maximum Daily Load program, to differentiate between those who are likely to enroll from others and to determine the probability of enrollment. Using survey data, results indicate that simply informing farmland owners of the eligibility of their land has the potential to increase willingness for filter strip enrollment. Farm owners more likely to participate are those who have greater debts, rely less on farm-generated income as a percentage of total family income and visit their local Natural Resources Conservation Service office more regularly.