Charles S. Colgan

A Framework for Assessing Cluster Development

Clusters, especially those based in some way on technological innovation, have become a key concept in regional development. But precise measurement and assessment of the concept is difficult. This is particularly the case in regions where techno- logical innovation has lagged significantly and where policy support has only recently expanded. This study examines the use of the “cluster” idea in seven industry groups in Maine defined by the state. An eight-element framework is proposed to describe cluster characteristics appropriate to these technology and industry-related groups. Based on extensive interviews with firms and other organizations, the strengths and weaknesses of cluster characteristics are identified. The role of clusters in the economy is also assessed by comparing cluster strength with market growth potential. The results show that none of the technology clusters currently has strong economic impact potential but that some could achieve that potential more quickly than would others.

Estimating the Economic Benefits of Regional Ocean Observing Systems

This article introduces a theme issue of the Coastal Management Journal comprising a set of articles on the potential economic benefits from new investments in coastal ocean observing systems. We describe a methodology to estimate these benefits, and apply this methodology to generate preliminary estimates of such benefits. The approach focuses on coastal ocean observing information within ten geographic regions encompassing all coastal waters of the United States, and within a wide range of industrial and recreational activities including recreational fishing and boating, beach recreation, maritime transportation, search and rescue operations, spill response, marine hazards prediction, offshore energy, power generation, and commercial fishing. Our findings suggest that annual benefits to users are likely to run in the multiple

Managing the middle ground: forests in the transition zone between cities and remote areas

100s of millions of dollars. The project results should be considered first-order estimates that are subject to considerable refinement as the parameters of regional observing systems are better defined, and as our understanding of user sectors improves.

Brave New World: International Regulation of Subsidies and the Future of State and Local Economic Development Programs

In many parts of the world there are extensive landscapes where forests and people strongly intermingle, notably in the suburbs and exurbs of cities. This landscape of transitional forest generally receives limited attention from policy makers and researchers who tend to be rooted in traditions centered on either urban planning or management of natural resources in rural areas. The transitional forest is on the periphery of both perspectives, but it is a large area that provides numerous important values (biodiversity, ecosystem function, forest products, and amenities) to the people that live in them and their neighboring cities. Here we argue for increased attention to transitional forests, identify major challenges, and suggest changes to planning and management practices needed to ensure that the values of these forests are sustained.

Beyond the Unemployment Rate: Workforce Profiles for Economic Development

Recent international trade agreements are likely to have profound effects on state and local development programs in coming years. The most important changes will come as a result of the new Agreement on Subsidies and Countervailing Measures concluded as part of the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade. Provisions of the North American Free Trade Agreement and the United States-Canada Free Trade Agreement may also affect development efforts. This article examines the new rules on subsidies and their implications for state and local economic development programs. It concludes that these programs are likely to come under increasing attack from trading partners of the United States. While there are limited exceptions to the new disciplines, many programs may have to be changed to comply with the new rules. Some programs may face countermeasures in other countries or may even be required to be removed by international dispute settlement procedures.

State of the U.S. Ocean and Coastal Economies 2014

Standard public employment data do not contain information critical to many economic development efforts. The problems with these data become especially acute in a slow population growth region where labor shortages are more the rule than are labor surpluses. To address these issues, an extensive survey of employees and employers was conducted in 17 regions covering the entire state of Maine. The survey data were combined with other public data about the labor force into an on-line database and a series of reports on each region. Results from the surveys provide detailed information on factors affecting labor force mobility, employee recruitment and compensation, and the distribution of skills and training. Approaches to collecting detailed workforce data using phone and mail surveys are discussed along with the limitations of the methods chosen and suggestions for improving methods for those who may consider undertaking such studies in their own regions.