Farmers in a southwestern Ontario watershed were surveyed to determine factors influencing their attitudes towards adoption of soil conservation practices. The majority of farmers in the watershed were internally motivated which indicates they believe that their own actions determine their successes and failures. Most respondents were also environmentally oriented. However, although many farmers in the study area have adopted crop rotations and cross-slope tillage, the adoption rate of conservation tillage is low. The survey suggests that the low adoption rate may be more a function of perceived economic risk associated with the tillage practice than lack of farmer motivation.

Locus of control and farmer orientation: Effects on conservation adoption

Agricultural land is one of the most important natural resources of the nation. However, this same resource, transported by wind and water, has been identified as one of the major sources of nonpoint source pollution. This paper examines the relationship between the agricultural sector's contribution to soil erosion and the process of environmental degradation. The economic "solution" to the resulting externality problem is discussed and contrasted with existing nonpoint source pollution abatement policies which rely on individual investment in best management practices. Minimum tillage is identified as a best management practice which also appears to be a profitable investment decision for farmers. Minimum tillage is evaluated on its merits as an investment from the farmer's perspective and for its contribution to nonpoint source pollution abatement.

E. Jane Luzar

Papers

A Survey of Nonpoint Pollution Policy Formation: A Preliminary Assessment of the Adoption of Minimum Tillage Cultural Practices