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College of Natural Resources

Evaluating Forest Management Incentive Programs

Forest - Evaluating Forest Management Incentive Programs - College of Natural Resources at NC State University

Project Title

Evaluating the Effectiveness of Public Incentive Programs for Forest Management and Restoration 

Project Description

Governmental programs in the form of financial incentives to promote natural resource conservation and management are widespread in the United States. However, farm and forest landowners usually have a variety of management goals and the public incentive programs do not incorporate all of them. This project will utilize a survey of forest and farm owners in North Carolina to evaluate the effectiveness of the existing cost-share programs and to assess landowners’ attitudes, preferences and willingness to participate in programs that promote nature-based solutions. By understanding these barriers to participation, these programs can improve their capacity to meet ecosystem services and conservation goals.

Principal Investigators

Expected Outcomes

  • Benefits current and future forest and farmland owners in North Carolina participating in or interested in cost-share conservation programs
  • Increased understanding of landowners’ motivations for land conservation and management
  • Improved effectiveness of government programs and communication
  • Greater participation of landowners in cost-share programs
  • Expanded opportunities for government support and collaboration with small and underrepresented landowners in nature-based solutions

Research Methods

  • Identify key issues and barriers landowners face with existing cost-share programs in North Carolina
  • Determine landowners’ willingness to participate by examining desired incentives, management practices, payment frequency and program administration
  • Analyze landowner behavior and preferences in relation to emerging program needs and priorities
  • Provide feedback to government programs to improve effectiveness in natural resource conservation and sustainable management

A McIntire-Stennis supported project

About McIntire-Stennis

The McIntire-Stennis program, a unique federal-state partnership, cultivates and delivers forestry and natural resource innovations for a better future. By advancing research and education that increases the understanding of emerging challenges and fosters the development of relevant solutions, the program has ensured healthy, resilient forests and communities and an exceptional natural resources workforce since 1962.