Farmers' perceptions, preferences, and propositions for result-oriented measures in mountain farming

Many of the farmers interviewed already engaged in agri-environment measures contracts, with a subset using result-oriented contracts. Farmer motivations to become involved with contracts included economic benefits and environmental preservation. Despite perceived constraints in the implementation of result-oriented measures, many farmers would prefer this approach, as it is seen as easier to implement and provides more flexibility to adapt its use to the specific conditions of their farm. In relation to biodiversity management, while many farmers would favour different types of grassland management measures to improve diversity of wild plants and animals (domesticated breeds and wild animals) on the farm, they experienced difficulty in articulating own suggestions for result-oriented measures. Our study shows that the result-oriented approach is an attractive option for many farmers, but a strong need for advice, support, or training would be necessary to implement such measures at a wider scale.