Challenges and Solutions for Applying the Travel Cost Demand Model to Geographically Remote Visitor Destinations: A Case Study of Bear Viewing at Katmai National Park and Preserve

ABSTRACT

Remote and unique destinations present difficulties when attempting to construct traditional travel cost models to value recreation demand. The biggest limitation comes from the lack of variation in the dependent variable, defined as the number of trips taken over a set time frame. There are various approaches that can be used for overcoming limitations of the traditional travel cost model in the context of remote destinations. This study applies an adaptation of the standard model to estimate recreation benefits of bear viewing at Katmai National Park and Preserve in Alaska, which represents a once-in-a-lifetime experience for many visitors. Results demonstrate that visitors to this park’s Brooks Camp area are willing to pay an average of US$287 per day of bear viewing. Implications of these findings for valuing recreation at other remote destinations are discussed.

KEYWORDS:

• Bears
• consumer surplus
• economic benefits
• travel cost method
• wildlife viewing

Notes

^1. Based on the questionnaire, the exact proportion of respondents that used certain travel modes to reach Alaska, such as driving, is unknown. However, we do know that at least 70% flew to Alaska.

^2. Any use of trade, firm, or product names is for descriptive purposes only and does not imply endorsement by the U.S. government.

^3. This could include tours in Katmai NP&PRES only, as well as tours to multiple destinations in Alaska.

^4. Testing the sensitivity of the results to the opportunity cost of time results in a value of $431 per person per day using the full wage rate and $222 assuming no opportunity cost of time.