Farmer Participation in Farmer-Led Watershed Groups: A Case Study in the Western Lake Erie Basi

Working toward a reduction of phosphorus runoff in the western Lake Erie basin, a farmer-led watershed organization known as the Farmers Advisory Committee (FAC) was formed in the River Raisin watershed west of Lake Erie. This study sought to better understand the reasons for farmers to a) join the FAC and b) what factors contribute to their continual participation. The goal of the research was to improve the FAC moving forward and increase farmer participation. The research was conducted as a case study through 1) Participant Observation and 2) Group Interviews with a Concept Modeling Exercise. The study found that major reasons for farmer participation in the FAC include the opportunity to influence policy decisions, the chance to learn about new agricultural technologies, and a strong relationship with the group facilitator. The study also illuminated differing opinions on farmer needs and motivators between farmers and agricultural partner participant groups. Moving forward, this study will help increase understanding between these two parties, and better tailor the FAC to farmer needs.