Economics

Public Acceptance of Lawncare Policy Instruments to Reduce Nonpoint-Source Pollution

Document Type

Article

Abstract

Achievingnutrient-reductiongoals in many water bodies requires control over household behaviors, such as lawn fertilizer use. These behaviors can be influenced through approaches that include direct quantity restrictions and price instruments. However, implementation of such policy instruments is deterred by the assumption that they would face public opposition. This article evaluates the public acceptability of price, quantity, and other instruments relevant to lawn fertilizer use. Models are illustrated using data from a discrete choice experiment conducted in the Baltimore, Maryland, region. The findings suggest that prevailing wisdom about the acceptability of lawncare regulations may lead to suboptimal policy outcomes. © 2026 by the Board of Regents of the University of Wisconsin System.

Publication Title

Land Economics

Publication Date

3-2026

Volume

102

Issue

2

First Page

193

Last Page

222

ISSN

0023-7639

DOI

10.3368/le.102.2.013125-0007R

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