Modelling Farmer Entry into the Environmentally Sensitive Area Schemes in Scotland

The probability and rate of farmer entry into the Environmentally Sensitive Area (ESA) scheme were investigated by multinomial logit and duration analysis respectively. Models were based on a survey of 490 farmers sampled from across all ten ESAs in Scotland. The results indicated a number of generic factors as important in explaining the entry decision. Non‐entrants were less aware of and less informed about the scheme than entrants. The probability of entry was increased where the scheme prescription fitted the farm situation and the costs of compliance were low. The duration analysis suggested several factors accelerating scheme entry: an interest in conservation, more adequate information and more extensive systems.