Option Price Estimates for Water Quality Improvements: A Contingent Valuation Study for the Monongahela River (1985)

Paper Number: EE-0301

Document Date: 08/01/1985

Author(s):  Desvousges, William H., Smith, V. Kerry,  Fisher, Ann

Subject Area(s):

Economic Analysis, Contingent Valuation Survey, Water Quality Benefits, Option Price

Keywords:  Economic Analysis, Contingent Valuation Survey, Water Quality Benefits, Option Price

Abstract: 

This paper presents the findings from a contingent valuation survey designed to estimate the option price bids for the improved recreation resulting from enhanced water quality in the Pennsylvania portion of the Monongahela River. The findings are based on a survey design that used professional interviewers to conduct personal interviews determined from a representative sample of 393 households. The findings suggest that the question format affects the option price estimates and that criteria for determining the final sample of responses have an important influence on contingent valuation results.

This paper is part of the  Environmental Economics Research Inventory.

• Option Price Estimates for Water Quality Improvements: A Contingent Valuation Study for the Monongahela River (pdf) (2.13 MB, 08/01/1985, EE-0301)
  This paper presents the findings from a contingent valuation survey designed to estimate the option price bids for the improved recreation resulting from enhanced water quality in the Pennsylvania portion of the Monongahela River. The findings are based on a survey design that used professional interviewers to conduct personal interviews determined from a representative sample of 393 households.