Insights from the behavioral sciences are revolutionizing the way in which government programs are designed and delivered, and CBEAR is bringing this revolution to agri-environmental programs. A “test, learn, adapt” strategy helps programs be their best, achieve greater levels of program participation and satisfaction, and achieve improved environmental outcomes, all while reducing costs. To create evidence-based programs, CBEAR has been conducting randomized field experiments across the US. We welcome the opportunity to collaborate with private-sector or governmental partners on projects related to the following initiatives:
(1) Building the evidence base for financial vs. technical assistance;
(2) Building the evidence base for enhancing the post-contract persistence of conservation practices; and
(3) Building the evidence base for environmental and economic benefits of input efficiency.

With the support of a USDA Conservation Innovation Grant, AFT has launched online access to the methods, tools, and training resources it used in developing case studies featuring soil health successful farmers in its Quantifying the Economic and Environmental Benefits of Soil Health project.

Specifically, partners will be able to use AFT’s Retrospective Soil Health Economic Calculator (R-SHEC), an 11-tab Excel-spreadsheet tool, to evaluate the costs and benefits of soil health practices including no-till or reduced tillage, cover crops, nutrient management, and conservation crop rotation on row crop farms that have adopted any combination of practices, ideally for more than four years and within the last 10 years. 

Access the Soil Health Economic and Environmental Case Study Toolkit or reach-out for more information. 

Crop advisers provide information and expertise on crop production, crop protection and natural resource management and provide advice and counsel to farmers, ranchers and other agricultural entities in their decision-making process. This responsibility requires a proficient understanding of crop production science, food safety, technology, economics and the environment. Crop advisers combine their knowledge in these disciplines as well as their local experience to provide sound recommendations to their clients.

To find a CCA near you, visit https://www.certifiedcropadviser.org/certifications/professional-search/

The National Association of Conservation Districts has member districts in all 50 states and in 7 territories. These districts work at the local level to address natural resource concerns through projects, programs, and education. Conservation Districts can provide support and expertise on approaches that work best for priority natural resource concerns of the region served by the district. Districts have developed relationships with a broad range of partners and have a long standing history of success throughout the nation.