The design of marine protected areas (MPAs) generates much discussion among marine scientists. Ecological studies have suggested that protecting 10 to 40% of regional ecosystems is needed to preserve diversity, while public preferences for MPA size have not been modeled. We conduct a choice experiment to estimate the existence value of protecting species and habitat diversity on the sea floor in areas that vary in size and allowable uses of the water column, and apply a latent class specification to accommodate taste parameter heterogeneity. Results identify three latent classes in the sample, and suggest that while protecting areas as ecological reserves is utility-increasing for most size/use combinations, smaller reserves with liberal use policies produce the largest increases. Our research suggests diminishing marginal utility for MPA sizes that are substantially smaller than ranges often cited, and the distinct latent classes underscore the need to question the assumption of homogeneous preferences when evaluating MPA policy.

A series of expenditure surveys have been done both regionally and nationally. This data pertains to the West coast states . Expenditures on trips by mode (for-hire, private boat, and shore) were collected for both residents and non-residents of each state, and annual expenditures on durable goods were collected by resident status. Expenditures were collected both as an add-on to the intercept, and a followup phone survey with those who completed the intercept and a separate random sample of households.

The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) conducted a survey of fisheries stakeholders on the Gulf and East Coasts of the United States seeking their views on ecosystem-based fisheries management (EBFM) of fisheries resources. The survey asked a series of attitude and opinion questions along with general environmental literacy and demographic questions to a sample of 7,850 fisheries stakeholders, stratified by region. Results indicate that respondents’ knowledge of the status of fisheries resources is qualitatively similar to NMFS ratings, though generally respondents were less than satisfied with current fisheries management. Results also suggest that, despite concerns over several specific measures, respondents generally see potential in an EBFM approach to management.

Revealed preference models provide insights into recreational angler behavior and the economic value of recreational fishing trips. Revealed preference data is typically collected by intercept and/or phone follow up calls. Typical variables include length of the trip (day or overnight), household income, whether or not angler took time off of work, and primary purpose of overall trip. Sometimes trip expenditures are included as well.

Revealed preference models provide insights into recreational angler behavior and the economic value of recreational fishing trips. This data is for the Northeast and is collected as needed, at irregular intervals. Typically collected as an economic add-on to the MRIP intercept survey and follow up phone or mail survey.

Revealed preference models provide insights into recreational angler behavior and the economic value of recreational fishing trips. Revealed preference data is typically collected by intercept and/or phone follow up calls. Typical variables include length of the trip (day or overnight), household income, whether or not angler took time off of work, and primary purpose of overall trip. Sometimes trip expenditures are included as well.

Revealed preference models provide insights into recreational angler behavior and the economic value of recreational fishing trips. This data is for the Northeast and is collected as needed, at irregular intervals. Typically collected as an economic add-on to the MRIP intercept survey and follow up phone or mail survey.

Revealed preference models provide insights into recreational angler behavior and the economic value of recreational fishing trips. This data is for the Northeast and is collected as needed, at irregular intervals. Typically collected as an economic add-on to the MRIP intercept survey and follow up phone or mail survey.

To collect data on an angler's last trip for revealed preference models and economic valuation purposes. Typically done as an add-on to the MRIP intercept survey and done as needed, periodically

This survey assessed the potential price premiums that consumers are willing to pay for tuna that is harvested from stocks with known abundance, known by-catch rates, and the effect of tuna farming on preferences.