Better Targeting, Better Outcomes

Abstract

While it is common knowledge that not all agricultural lands have the same productive capacity, it is increasingly recognized that the environmental impacts of agricultural production also differ. To best achieve conservation goals, programs can target those farms and fields where conservation efforts are likely to generate the most profound or widespread environmental benefits for a given program size.

Targeting is a means of choosing which offers to accept. Targeting helps programs achieve multiple objectives.Targeting relies on data, models, and opinions. Targeting for environmental benefits may involve geography.Targeting can increase benefits and reduce costs. Targeting has improved program performance, but could do more.

Keywords: targeting, agricultural conservation, cost benefit, multiple objectives

JEL Classification: Q28, Q24