Survey of Cooperator Knowledge and Attitudes (Preliminary Results)

1
Survey of CooperatorKnowledge and
Attitudes(Preliminary Results)

• Troy Pierce
• and
• M. D. Smolen

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Creek and Riverbank Survey

• Procedure
• 30 cooperators selected at random from 10
  counties
• Surveyed by telephone by District Staff
• Responses received and tabulated by Troy Pierce

3
District Response (as of 2/26/99)

• Upper Washita -- 29/30
• Wagoner County -- 30/30
• Pittsburg County -- 8/30
• Payne County -- 18/30
• Commanche County -- 3/30
• Deer Creek -- 23/30
• Garfield County -- 14/30

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1. Do creeks and riverbanks need special
attention to protect water quality?
5
2. Would you invest some of your farm/ranch
income to protect creeks and rivers in your area?
6
3. If needed, would you be willing to change your
agricultural practices to improve water quality?
7
4. Have you heard about any state or federal
programs to help farmers protect water quality?
Garfield County 12 No 2 Yes
8
Federal programs mentioned
9
5. Can trees help protect the banks of creeks and
rivers?
10
6. Can cattle in or near a creek cause water
quality problems?
11
Problems mentioned
12
7. Does straightening a creek decrease flooding?
13
8. Can landowners make money from leasing their
land along creeks and rivers for hunting?
14
9. Do you think farmers will protect water
quality without regulations?
15
10. What recommendations would you make to
protect water quality?
16
11. Describe any creek of riverbank problems in
your area?
17
Conclusions

• Cooperators are receptive.
• Most are willing to modify practices or spend
  some money.
• Cooperators need information. There are many
  myths out there.
• Voluntary programs are important, but there is
  recognition of a need for regulation.