This information
collection is disapproved under the terms of 5 CFR 1320.The primary
purpose of this addition to the survey is to enable linking between
the travel-cost and contingent valuation (CV) methodologies. We are
not convinced that the relevant survey questions will enable a such
a meaningful linkage. In particular the travel cost methodology
will allow the estimation of the value of the snorkeling experience
under current conditions, while the CV questions appear to be
asking for the value of a water quality program designed to insure
against some unspecified degree of degradation of the quality of
the experience. Thus,we believe the two methods will value
different goods. One appears to value the experience under current
conditions, while the other, in effect, asks the WTP for an
insurance policy. We would consider approving this collection on
the condition that the questions are amended so that both the
travel-cost and CV questions lead to the value of the same good (or
at least points on the same demand curve). As a justification of
these questions (either current or revised) we would value the
opinion of reviewers McConnell or Smith, in which they would
specifically evaluate that the questions (current or amended) will
indeed allow for meaningful linkage between the two methods.
Inventory as of this Action
Requested
Previously Approved
06/30/1996
05/31/1996
09/30/1996
33,500
0
32,600
4,965
0
4,890
0
0
0
The proposed extension is to collect
information for an experiment to evaluate the linking of revealed
and stated preference information in the estimation of demand for
and nonmarket use values of natural resources. The results should
lead to improved methods for nonmarket valuation of the use of
natural resources.
On behalf of this Federal agency, I certify that
the collection of information encompassed by this request complies
with 5 CFR 1320.9 and the related provisions of 5 CFR
1320.8(b)(3).
The following is a summary of the topics, regarding
the proposed collection of information, that the certification
covers:
(i) Why the information is being collected;
(ii) Use of information;
(iii) Burden estimate;
(iv) Nature of response (voluntary, required for a
benefit, or mandatory);
(v) Nature and extent of confidentiality; and
(vi) Need to display currently valid OMB control
number;
If you are unable to certify compliance with any of
these provisions, identify the item by leaving the box unchecked
and explain the reason in the Supporting Statement.