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Can superior natural amenities create high-quality employment opportunities? The case of nonconsumptive river recreation in central Idaho

J.R. McKean·D.M. Johnson·Richard L. Johnson·R.G. Taylor
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Abstract

Central Idaho has superior environmental amenities, as evidenced by exceptionally high-value tourism, such as guided whitewater rafting. The focus of our study concerns the attainment of high-quality jobs in a high-quality natural environment. We estimate cumulative wage rate effects unique to nonconsumptive river recreation in central Idaho for comparison with other sectors. The cumulative effects are based on a detailed survey of recreation spending and a modified synthesized input–output model. Cumulative wage rate effects support using the abundance of environmental amenities to expand and attract high-wage, environmentally sensitive firms, as opposed to expanded tourism to improve employment quality.

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J.R. McKean, D.M. Johnson, Richard L. Johnson, R.G. Taylor. 2005. Can superior natural amenities create high-quality employment opportunities? The case of nonconsumptive river recreation in central Idaho. https://doi.org/10.1080/08941920591005304

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