Robert J. Johnston

Valuing Estuarine Resource Services Using Economic and Ecological Models: The Peconic Estuary System Study

This article summarizes four integrated economic studies undertaken to contribute to resource preservation and restoration decisions for the Peconic Estuary System of Suffolk County, NY. Completed as part of the National Estuary Program, the studies apply distinct resource valuation methods to a wide range of resource issues. The principal goals of this article are to highlight different methodologies that may be used to assess nonmarket economic values in a coastal management context, and characterize differences in the results that one may expect from each approach. We also emphasize potential relationships among values estimated by different nonmarket methodologies, and comment on the implications of these relationships for the interpretation and use of economic value estimates.

Estimating Amenity Benefits of Coastal Farmland

This paper investigates differences in non-market farmland amenity values estimated using distinct methodologies, with a focus on the potential causes and policy implications. The paper compares farmland amenity values generated by a hedonic property value model and a contingent choice model, both estimated from data collected in the Peconic Estuary System of Suffolk County, NY. The analysis demonstrates that a combination of non-market valuation methodologies can provide policy insights not otherwise available to those relying on any single approach, and illustrates types of information that may be obscured by methodologies used in isolation. Copyright 2001 Gatton College of Business and Economics, University of Kentucky.

Exogenous Factors and Visitor Behavior: A Regression Analysis of Exhibit Viewing Time

This study provides quantitative conclusions regarding the impact of specific exogenous factors on exhibit viewing time in zoological parks and discusses implications for exhibit design. Three features distinguish this analysis from previous research concerning viewing time: (a) Data collection was preceded by extensive field work, to identify more than 50 variables with potential effects on viewing time; (b) the results of ethnographic interview techniques were combined with on-site observation and objective data to quantify and scale relevant variables; and (c) multiple regression techniques were used to quantify and test unique quantitative effects of independent variables on observed viewing time. The analysis compares recorded viewing times of 501 individuals across 10 exhibits at six zoological parks.

Estimating demand for wildlife viewing in zoological parks: An exhibit‐specific, time allocation approach

Abstract Research concerning wildlife viewing in zoological parks provides important information on which to base exhibit and zoo design decisions. Assessment of visitor behavior—in particular visitors’ demands for viewing specific exhibits—is critical for evaluating the success of current exhibits, improving existing exhibits, and designing future zoological facilities. This paper estimates the impact of exhibit and zoo design, environmental and demographic characteristics on time spent viewing specific species in zoological parks. Unlike traditional research concerning nonconsumptive wildlife recreation, this analysis uses viewing time as a means to estimate demand for wildlife viewing. Model results demonstrate that variables representing exhibit design, zoo design, and exogenous environmental conditions have significant impacts on wildlife viewing time.