Factors affecting farmer participation in agri-environment schemes in the uplands of Northern Ireland

Agri-environment schemes (AES) have long been used as a policy lever to promote pro-environmental behaviours within farming communities. However, the role of AES is now becoming more prominent as subsidies to farmers increasingly shift from productive to environmental goals. Yet, questions remain about how to overcome entrenched barriers to widening AES participation, and how to deliver more radical systems-level transformation via such schemes. Focusing on the upland context, this paper explores how perceptions and experiences of AES inform receptiveness to future AES participation and new forms of environmental action (especially results-based schemes and peatland restoration). The paper specifically focuses on beef and sheep upland farm settings within Northern Ireland, with data collected through a series of group discussions across the region. The results show that while there are entrenched (and often critical) views towards AES, as well as a perception of existing strength in environmental stewardship, nevertheless, behavioural change towards new and more radical approaches is possible via future AES. • The upland context and its specific place characteristics has shaped farmer interpretation of AES involvement. • Attitudes towards AES are constructed through the prism of previous AES and long-established farming practices. • Antipathy towards land use change may be countered through the involvement of a trusted expert. • Policy makers should carefully consider the relevance of place when designing agri-environmental schemes.