Sweden’s financial support system for implementation of wetlands in agriculture : Key enabling and disabling factors

The main objective of this study, conducted by the request of the Swedish Environmental Research Institute’s (IVL) office in Beijing, was to analyse and draw lessons from Sweden’s financial support system regarding the implementation of wetlands in agriculture. Of special interest were the factors that motivate or does not motivate farmers to implement wetlands on their lands. The study was based mainly on a literature analysis, with elements of a more participatory kind, such as interviews and questionnaires with professionals from governmental-and guidance agencies. The study was carried out in February to March 2015. According to the result, key factors for successful wetland projects are: 1. Put more effort into developing long-term relationships with farmers, 2. Provide more information regarding the efficiency of the wetland to the landowner, 3. Create more flexible contracts for farmers, 4. Establish a nutrient “credit” system. Keywords: farmers willingness, financial support system, Rural Development Programme, support grants wetlands, agri-environmental measur