Economic & Social Values of Recreational Floating on the Niobrara National Scenic River Final Report July 2009 Prepared by: Steven Shultz, PhD University of Nebraska at Omaha (
[email protected]) Niobrara National Scenic River Floaters (Photos by S. Schneider, NPS; L. Hutchinson, NGPC; and S. Shultz, UNO) ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS Funding for this Research Provided by The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission and the Nebraska Environmental Trust University of Nebraska Research Assistants and Editorial Support Drew Kessler and Magally Martinez, University of Nebraska‐Lincoln Andrew Bauer and Jackie Lynch, University of Nebraska at Omaha Institutions/Agencies that Provided Invaluable Advice and/or Assistance Cherry County UNL‐Extension Service The Niobrara Council The National Park Service Smith Falls State Park and Valentine State Fish Hatchery The Nebraska University Water Center The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Fort Niobrara National Wildlife Refuge) Niobrara National Scenic River Outfitters Who Permitted Access to Their Parking Areas and/or Campgrounds (for Visitor Surveys) Graham Canoe Outfitters; Rocky Ford Outfitters; Dryland Aquatics; Brewers Canoers and Tubes; Sunnybrook Camp, Sharps Outfitters; Rock Barn Outfitters; Stan’s Landing Disclaimer Much appreciation is extended to the above funding agencies, research assistants, and collaborators. However, all statements and/or any potential errors and omissions are the sole responsibility of the author. Author Contact Information Steven Shultz, PhD Economics Department, College of Business Administration, University of Nebraska at Omaha, Omaha, NE, 68132 Phone: 402‐554‐2810 Email:
[email protected] i TABLE OF CONTENTS Executive Summary iii List of Figures iv List of Tables v 1. Introduction 1 1.1 Background 1 1.2 Purpose and Objectives 3 1.3 Prior Studies 3 2.