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An Assessment of Mississippi's Nonindustrial Private Forest Landowners' Knowledge of Forest Best Management Practices

Informally Refereed

Abstract

This study examined the knowledge levels of Mississippi nonindustrial private forest (NIPF) landowners relative to best management practices (BMPs) for water quality. Data were collected through surveys of participants in BMP programs held in conjunction with County Forestry Association (CFA) meetings throughout Mississippi during 2001-02. Ten CFAs participated in this study. Participants were asked several demographic and BMP-related questions prior to a presentation. Results showed that participants owned an average of 280 (n = 213) acres, whereas the average Mississippi NIPF land-owner owns 50 acres (n = 360,000). Responses to BMP-related questions reveal that Mississippi NIPF landowners have a low level of knowledge concerning BMPs. This situation is likely similar to other States in the Southeastern United States. These results may overestimate the BMP knowledge level of forest landowners in Mississippi if it can be assumed that CFA members are more active and informed about managing their forest land. Improved educational programs for NIPF landown-ers, along with better communication between foresters, loggers, and NIPF landowners, is needed if BMPs are to be used effectively in Mississippi and across the Southeastern United States.

Parent Publication

Citation

Londo, Andrew James; Auel, John Benkert. 2004. An Assessment of Mississippi''s Nonindustrial Private Forest Landowners'' Knowledge of Forest Best Management Practices. Gen. Tech. Rep. SRS–71. Asheville, NC: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Southern Research Station. pp.
https://www.fs.usda.gov/research/treesearch/6615