A nutrient reduction work plan is being developed for the South Lake Champlain watershed that will address the water quality impairments to Lake Champlain. 35% of the phosphorus runoff into the Lake from this watershed is estimated to come from agriculture so it is imperative that agricultural practices be considered in this work plan. The purpose of this thesis is to evaluate assumed impediments to farmer participation in a water quality improvement planning process and develop a public participation process that will allow for adequate agricultural representation. A survey was conducted of 31 farmers in the South Lake watershed. The survey asked about farmers’ attitudes towards water quality issues and planning processes in general and specifically about public participation processes. The survey was conducted in person as well as by mail, which allowed for substantial qualitative feedback. It is not only important to engage farmers in this planning process; it must do more than just meet structural needs, such as time or location of meetings and must clearly demonstrate to farmers the value of their input and provide a level of empowerment that validates their time and resource commitment to the process. The process must emphasize the value of shared education gained through the process. Education of both the farmers and planning sponsors increases the decision quality, as well as potentially increasing trust while decreasing conflict in project implementation. The process should include non-agricultural contributors to water quality impairment. Lastly, the process should provide multiple methods for public participation including representation of the agricultural industry by local organizations or individuals. A successful public participation process for nutrient reduction would provide educational and collaborative opportunities for improvement resulting in an implementation process that achieves water quality improvement goals with decreased conflict and increased understanding of the comprehensive watershed issues.