ECOLOGICAL ATTITUDES OF FARMERS AND ADOPTION OF BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES

This paper reports on a study of Best Management Practices (BMPs) adoption by sugarcane producers in Louisiana and factors that influence producer decisions to adopt BMPs. A mail survey collected data on ecological views of sugarcane producers and their adoption of BMPs. Ecological views are measured using the New Ecological Paradigm Scale and additional survey questions on producers perceptions regarding agricultural nonpoint source pollution. Results show that producers may currently be in compliance with federal guidelines, but not meet more rigorous standards. Ecological views of producers suggest the need for producer education programs on BMPS and benefits to the environment