Who Participates in EQIP?

The Environmental Quality Incentive Program is designed to improve environmental stewardship of crop and livestock production. Funds requested through the program greatly exceed the supply. Recent changes make the program more attractive for larger farmers. A survey of farmers in Missouri and Iowa found that larger farmers (in terms of farm sales) and those without a personal concern for water quality in their county are significantly more likely to be aware of EQIP. Those who plan to expand in the next five years, and those who use and trust public information sources, are more likely to be aware of the program and also to participate in EQIP. Age and education variables were not significant.