Landholder participation in native vegetation management in irrigation areas

摘要: Summary Landholder adoption of conservation practices has been extensively researched in dryland areas, but there less research into the biodiversity irrigation areas. The Murray Catchment Management Authority (MCMA) and Irrigation Limited (MIL) south-west New South Wales offer landholders monetary incentives to enhance native vegetation management. However, uptake recommended slower areas than serviced by MCMA. We explored landholder participation management MIL area using semistructured interviews with extension staff. Our findings suggest are important differences between contexts. Landholders districts face higher opportunity costs more likely mistrust government intentions. Other constraints include lack financial resources, restricted time carry out works a high turnover adopted because those matched their values goals. importance regular contact positive enthusiastic officer was also evident. These have implications for policies programs. Extension should move beyond arousing interest substantial follow-up maintain motivation confidence, as well provide recognition past efforts. Incentive programs be designed wider support different entry points allowing participants adapt, learn build confidence. Incentives address experienced landholders, particularly at times peak workloads during drought. Work targets set field staff can too result program focusing on accomplishing on-ground work, rather developing irrigators’ longer-term commitment conservation.