Valuing Ecotourism in the Sierra Tarahumara (Copper Canyon Region) of Chihuahua, Mexico
Investigators:
Evan Mercer,
Southern Research Station
Lydia Breunig, Duke University
Description:
The Sierra Tarahumara is distinguished by a vast network of canyons that support a diversity of habitats. The Sierra Tarahumara is also home to the Rarámuri, one of the largest indigenous groups in Mexico. The natural and cultural resources of the Sierra Tarahumara attract increasing numbers of tourists. To protect these resources, the Mexican government is currently evaluating a proposal to provide environmental protection for the Sierra Tarahumara. The compatibility of tourism development and conservation in the region is evaluated by measuring tourists' use and public preservation values for the Sierra Tarahumara. Use and preservation values are measured using a non-market valuation technique called the contingent valuation method (CVM). A CVM survey of 264 tourists was conducted in the Sierra Tarahumara during the summer of 1996. From this survey, it is determined that tourists are willing to pay a per-person entrance fee of US$110.78 - 115.25 to finance the biosphere reserve.
Problem Area(s):
Tropical forestry
Status:
Ongoing
Products:
Breunig, L. 1997. The Economic Benefits of Protected Areas in Relation to Tourism: A Case Study of the Sierra Tarahumara, Chihuahua Mexico. MS Thesis. Duke University.
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modified:
13-MAR-2000
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USDA FS SRS
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