Research analyzed adoption of erosion control practices by farm operators in two counties in each of four states: Alabama, Missouri, Tennessee, and Washington. Analysis was based on farm survey data and technical and financial assistance information from county Soil Conservation Service (SCS) and Agricultural Stabilization and Conservation Service records. Factors affecting farmers' adoption of soil conservation practices varied by owned and rented land and by state. The differences among states, tenure classes, and various dependent variables left little basis for a model that could predict adoption of practices in the areas studied. Each state contained unique characteristics; therefore, no uniform guidelines for erosion control programs appeared appropriate. Some variables were common. Strong statistical agreement was indicated that rented land on the farms surveyed was not enrolled in the erosion control targeting program at the same rate as was owned land. Previous conservation efforts and participation in previous SCS programs had a generally significant and positive effect on adoption. Other variables provided mixed signals as to strength and direction of impact on adoption. (YLB)