Rancher Preferences for Grassland Conservation Reserve Programs in the Northern U.S. Great Plains

This study uses a discrete choice experiment to examine how ranchers in the Northern Great Plains respond to features of the Grassland CRP. We find that ranchers prefer higher payments and cost-share, shorter contract lengths, and flexibility. Ranchers value contracts that allow winter grazing and resist mandatory rotational grazing. Willingness-to-accept estimates show that ranchers require $6.47/acre for rotational grazing and $8.19 for longer contracts but would forgo $7.81, $11.77, and $7.84 per acre for cost-share, winter grazing, and flexibility, respectively. Preference heterogeneity is most evident for grazing-related practices and cost share. Nearly 69% of non-participants are unaware of the Program and perceive that payment and cost-share are more important than other contract features. Participation could be improved through flexible contract design, enhanced outreach, and financial incentives.