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Exploring Private Landowners' Behavioral Intent Toward Active Forest Management in the Cross-Timbers Region.

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Bibliographic Details
Title: Exploring Private Landowners' Behavioral Intent Toward Active Forest Management in the Cross-Timbers Region.
Authors: Rodrigo, Chamali1 (AUTHOR) hrodrigo@purdue.edu, Joshi, Omkar1 (AUTHOR), Poudyal, Neelam Chandra2 (AUTHOR), Russell, Aaron1 (AUTHOR), Susaeta, Andres3 (AUTHOR)
Source: Society & Natural Resources. Mar2026, Vol. 39 Issue 3, p445-463. 19p.
Subject Terms: *Forest thinning, *Prescribed burning, *Ecological regions, *Forest management, Planned behavior theory, Preparedness, Landowners, Behaviorism (Psychology)
Abstract: Active forest management practices like thinning and prescribed burning are underutilized in the Cross-Timbers (CT) region, contributing to productivity loss, woody plant encroachment, and vegetation changes in this privately-owned forested area. However, limited research exists on the social and psychological factors that drive landowners' willingness to adopt these practices. To address this gap, we explored the influence of attitudes, norms, and perceived behavioral control (PBC) on landowners' behavioral intent to adopt thinning or prescribed burning, using the Theory of Planned Behavior and the Norm Activation Model. A mixed-mode survey of CT landowners, conducted via Dillman's Tailored Design Method, was analyzed using a Structural Equation Modeling approach. Results indicated that behavioral intent for both practices was positively linked to norms, attitudes, and past behavior, while perceived behavioral control was non-significant. Strengthening social norms, fostering positive attitudes, and providing resources can promote active forest management, ensuring sustainable stewardship in the CT region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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Database: GreenFILE
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Abstract:Active forest management practices like thinning and prescribed burning are underutilized in the Cross-Timbers (CT) region, contributing to productivity loss, woody plant encroachment, and vegetation changes in this privately-owned forested area. However, limited research exists on the social and psychological factors that drive landowners' willingness to adopt these practices. To address this gap, we explored the influence of attitudes, norms, and perceived behavioral control (PBC) on landowners' behavioral intent to adopt thinning or prescribed burning, using the Theory of Planned Behavior and the Norm Activation Model. A mixed-mode survey of CT landowners, conducted via Dillman's Tailored Design Method, was analyzed using a Structural Equation Modeling approach. Results indicated that behavioral intent for both practices was positively linked to norms, attitudes, and past behavior, while perceived behavioral control was non-significant. Strengthening social norms, fostering positive attitudes, and providing resources can promote active forest management, ensuring sustainable stewardship in the CT region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
ISSN:08941920
DOI:10.1080/08941920.2025.2562404