Understanding Potential Agricultural Owner-Operator And Tenant Adoption Of Saturated Buffers In Elm Creek Watershed, Minnesota

Abstract

Saturated buffers are a new agricultural best management practice that aims to redirect nitrogen laden subsurface tile water into a buffer area to promote denitrification, thus reducing excess nutrients in nearby water bodies This study explores factors that influence adoption of this emerging tool. 20 agricultural owner/operators in Martin and Jackson Counties, in south-central Minnesota, were interviewed at their homes and properties about their knowledge, capacity to adopt, willingness to adopt, and physical perceptions of a saturated buffer on their operations and in the larger farming community. We found that initial lack of exposure, perception of compatibility with existing infrastructure and environmental conditions, technological uncertainties, and perceived inability to manage risk served as barriers to discussion about the practice. Producers cited that some of these concerns could be mitigated with buy-in from their personal agronomist, increased local long-term demonstration sites on community leader’s properties, financial assistance to protect operations during practice debut, and regulatory consistency amongst natural resource agencies. One-on-one interviews highlighted the complexities present in each operation and the need for both social and economic support.