A journey through networks: An assessment of who influences on-farm conservation decisions

Session: 41b. - Great Lakes Harmful Algal Blooms Research from Watershed Influence to Ecosystem Effects

Stephen Gasteyer, Michigan State University, [email protected]
Alaina Nunn, Michigan State University, [email protected]

Abstract

Scientists and policy makers now understand that phosphorous effluent from agriculture is a major contributor to harmful algae blooms in Lake Erie.  The implication is that farmers in the Lake Erie basin need to change agricultural practices to limit phosphorous runoff.  The question is how to encourage changes to farmer practices.  Building on Nowak’s (2011) “conservation journey,” our research attempts to better understand farmers not as autonomous actors, but as actors embedded in networks that influence production systems and land management.  In this paper, we report the results of qualitative research on those networks -- specifically, who influences farmer decisions about the scope, design, and implementation of agricultural operations. We use a combination of on-farm interviews with farmers, as well as interviews with key informants from agriculture-serving organizations including: crop advisors, land appraisers, credit institutions, and agribusiness representatives.  Using findings from analysis of these interviews, we develop a conceptual model of which actors influence farmers and farm management decisions.  Further, interviews reveal possible future institutional directions for interventions to improve conservation behavior.  Based on the findings, this paper makes recommendations about future research and practice toward better engaging these critical actors in the conservation journey.

1. Keyword
watersheds

2. Keyword
Great Lakes basin

3. Keyword
phosphorus

4. Additional Keyword
Agriculture

5. Additional Keyword
decision making

6. Additional Keyword
Networks