Abstract
An Environmentally Sensitive Areas Scheme has been implemented in 10 designated areas of Scotland, covering 19% of Scotland's agricultural land. A Scheme has operated since 1987 and there are currently 1 560 participants. The uptake of eligible units ranges from 17-59% between areas. Objectives include protecting the nature conservation value of grazed upland vegetation, species-rich grassland and wetlands and farm woodland, repairing traditional walls and hedges and protecting historic features. Monitoring has shown that the nature conservation value has been maintained but that only limited enhancement has taken place to date. To assess the value that the general public in Scotland place on the Scheme, two contingent valuation studies have been undertaken to assess the public's willingness to pay for the potential environmental benefits. Both studies have shown that the public value the Scheme highly. Other outcomes of the Scheme have been increases in net farm income, increased rural employment, extensification of sheep and cattle production and a greater awareness of environmental issues by farmers. © Elsevier / Inra environment / contingent valuation / habitats / monitoring / rural economy