Conservation practices are one of the largest group projects ever. For a fully changed landscape and lasting change, sustainable partnerships and shared understandings must take priority in our planning efforts. According to results from American Farmland Trust’s multi-state non-operating landowner survey, most owners do not know about government conservation programs, nor do they have farming experience. Without knowledge, there can be no change.
Often, our outreach efforts prioritize farmers or active land managers. When completing our program planning, we must consider the hidden gatekeepers in conservation, including land owners who are interested in sustainable farming practices but aren’t sure how to broach the subject with their leasees or those who are unsure how to connect with local conservation organizations to better understand sustainable land management practices and their benefits. Learning opportunities that can provide that link between farmers, land owners and the organizations that service them are key in building partnerships that encourage change.
Download: Overcoming Barriers by Encouraging Partnership