Governmental programs have been widely used in the United States and elsewhere to address agricultural problems. In England, the Farm Woodland Premium Scheme (FWPS) was established in 1992 to compensate farmers for converting farmlands into woodlands. This study found that the program was successful, but could be improved with a few modifications. For example, the high level of farmer satisfaction indicates that the scheme's enrollment levels are sustainable. However, implementing incentives for tenant participation and providing forest management training programs might achieve increased enrollment levels. Furthermore, FWPS administrators reported a tension-free relationship with farmers, steady funding levels, and new program efficiencies. The scheme may be even more effective, however, if it had more funding, better coordination between agencies, and slightly modified compliance policies. The FWPS also has promoted significant environmental improvements to the countryside by expanding woodland cover and edge, increasing wildlife biodiversity, and diminishing pollution levels. However, encouraging plantings that supplement or connect existing woodland patches would likely enhance such environmental benefits. The scheme should also provide effective flood and erosion control over time, as the new plantings develop into mature forests. Insights into the FWPS and its environmental benefits are discussed with respect to their possible relevance elsewhere.