A recent survey conducted by CALS researchers finds that Midwestern farmers are feeling the effects of extreme weather, and they view conservation practices that counter those effects as an important part of their work.

A team from the Department of Forest and Wildlife Ecology led by professor Adena Rissman analyzed survey responses from 527 farmers in eight Midwestern states. A large majority of those farmers say they are moderately or extremely concerned about severe weather events, including heavy rainfall and floods (79%) and soil erosion (70%). And 90% think good farmers should minimize soil erosion and nutrient runoff into waterways. Yet only 15% dedicate some cropland to pollinator plants, prairie plants, or trees, which highlights an area of conservation where farmers could use additional support.

The study was supported by the National Science Foundation, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and the UW.