Economic Incentives for Conversion of Bottomland Hardwood Forests

Private landowners convert bottomland hardwood forests to agricultural land because it is profitable. Clearly, private market forces provide economic incentives. But beyond market incentives, there are public policies that impact bottomlands. Some public programs encourage the protection of bottomland forests. On the other hand, there are a variety of government programs that apparently enhance the profitability or reduce the risks associated with the clearing and draining of bottomland forests.