Through the use of PROXSCAL and standard deviation ellipses
the research demonstrates how an analytical method more commonly
used in other research fields can be an effective technique
to visualise patterns in interview data and, in this case, show how
various sets of advisors fulfil different or similar roles in terms of
recommending DWPA mitigation measures.
From the interview results it is apparent that the advice delivered
by different advisors is not homogeneous and particular
niches exist within the farm advice sector. However, gaps were
discovered and concerns were raised by some advisors about a
lack of knowledge regarding activities by representatives from
other organisations. These results provide evidence which supports
Proctor et al. (2011)’s claims that advisors need to be better
informed ofthe networks and local contexts in which they are operating
and their role within them. To address such issues, two key
recommendations are made below.
The diversity highlighted in this study suggests there would
be merit in conducting further assessments of advisory services
in other regions. This would help policy makers, advisors and
farmers to better navigate the existing advisory landscapes and
identify potential sources and pathways for dissemination of information
on particular issues. Catchment Management Plans (CMPs)
required by the WFD, would significantly benefit from such work
and organisations involved in creating CMPs should consider conducting
similar advisory system assessments for their catchment.
In England, many CMPs currently fail to consider the importance
of advice provision to farmers (e.g. Norfolk Rivers Trust, 2014)
and only a few summarise the current advisory landscape (e.g.
Broadland Catchment Partnership, 2014) or include advice provision
in their strategy (e.g. Tamar Catchment Plan, 2012). The Eden
Rivers Trust CMP (2014:12) acknowledges the need for developing
a joined-up advice programme and better co-ordination of existing
initiatives, thus supporting the recommendation for further
assessments.
There is also scope for government policy implementation to
make better use of non-government advisors. Although regional
briefing sessions and training are provided for such advisors,
this has not always avoided conflict or confusion regarding what
guidance should be disseminated. Through greater cooperation
and better communication, advice dissemination schemes could
achieve more effective implementation of agri-environmental policies
to support catchment management (as evidenced in many
of the case studies discussed by Smith et al., 2015). It is recommended
that more funds are targeted towards organisations
providing advice which have well-established relationships with
farmers, acting as an intermediary for the government. The ability
to offer trusted, tailored advice reduces a farmer’s perception of
risk, and with the use of mechanisms such as grant incentives or
other innovative methods (e.g. the Wildlife Trust’s machinery ring)
allows flexibility and improves effectiveness of engagement.