Farmer engagement using a precision approach to watershed-scale conservation planning: What do we know?

The paper explores farmer engagement in watershed-scale conservation planning using the Agricultural Conservation Planning Framework (ACPF). Through in-depth interviews with 15 farmers across four Midwestern US watersheds, the study finds that most farmers are receptive to site-specific conservation targeting, especially when they maintain autonomy in decision-making and perceive tangible benefits, such as validation of local concerns and encouragement of watershed-level thinking. The research highlights that personalized maps and one-on-one engagement foster greater adoption of conservation practices, with maps valued as both visualization tools and catalysts for communication. Key recommendations include making conservation maps more interactive, focusing on clear and relevant information, providing flexibility in practice adoption, and prioritizing direct, relationship-based engagement with farmers.