Motivations and Barriers to Family Forest Owner Enrollment in Carbon Markets
Research Poster Social & Behavioral Sciences 2025 Graduate ExhibitionPresentation by Kripa Neupane
Exhibition Number 15
Abstract
About 56% of forestland in the US is privately owned. As trees grow, they provide important ecosystem services, including carbon sequestration. Investors are seeking ways to use private forests to mitigate climate change impacts, which could also create new revenue opportunities for landowners through payments for managing forest health and carbon. While many landowners are open to managing their forests for multiple purposes, there is limited understanding of their willingness to participate in carbon payment programs. To fill this gap, we conducted a statewide survey in Pennsylvania (PA) and Virginia (VA) to examine landowners’ willingness to enroll in such programs. Using a random effect ordered probit model, we analyzed data to assess factors influencing participation, such as contract length, payment levels, and demographic characteristics. The study revealed that most landowners are interested in joining carbon programs, particularly those that enhance forest health, offer shorter contract lengths, provide higher payments, and use annual payment options. Additionally, landowners were willing to enroll over 75% of their forestland, indicating a strong interest in adopting climate-positive practices when the right incentives are provided. These findings can help guide policymakers in creating effective programs that align with landowners' interests, promoting greater participation in climate-smart forestry.
Importance
This research is significant because it explores the role of private forestland ownership in mitigating climate change. With more than half of the U.S. forests privately owned, these lands present a valuable opportunity for reducing carbon emissions through carbon sequestration. Understanding landowners’ willingness to participate in carbon payment programs is key to designing policies that encourage sustainable forest management and support climate change mitigation. By assessing the factors that influence landowners' decisions, this research helps shape programs that can improve forest health, provide economic benefits to landowners, and contribute to broader environmental goals. The findings will guide policymakers in creating effective, incentivized programs for climate-positive forestry practices.