Family Forest Owner Focus Group Perceptions of Invasive Species Control Methods ’ Effectiveness and Economic Feasibility

Focus group methodology was used to obtain qualitative data in a group discussion, field demonstration situation on the perceptions of South Carolina family forest owners relating to practice efficiency and economic feasibility of invasive species control methods. Chemical control methods were emphasized. Focus group research is common in forestry, but group interviews are rarely performed in the field. Focus group interviews took place on sites where various herbicide treatments were implemented for Chinese privet control. Discussion centered on factors that made treatments appear effective in terms of both control and cost. Focus groups were divided into two groups; one with and one without a primary timber production objective. Forest owners expressed concerns about the cost effectiveness of treatments with regards to timber value, and the possible need for expensive multiple treatments, cost-share incentives, and treatment guarantees from herbicide applicators. Field focus groups proved to be a valuable tool to gauge forest owner perceptions of chemical control methods effectiveness in terms of both perceived control results and cost. An unexpected result was a strong feeling among the forest owners that focus groups are a powerful demonstration tool.