Impacts of targeted education programs on the adoption of residential best management practices (BMP) to combat non-point source pollution

Abstract

This study presents findings from a residential survey that examines education and outreach programs and their impacts on adoption of best management practices (BMPs). Findings indicate that specific exposure to the BMP through a place-based experience facilitated by a local organization (ecology action center—EAC) has a positive effect, but the degree to which such knowledge is transferrable within a watershed without further facilitation remains in question. Future management efforts would benefit from efforts that bring actionable information on BMPs to residents through neighborhood level programs that also incorporate place-based experiences in stimulating homeowners’ adoption of BMPs.