Recreational values of forest park using the contingent valuation method (case study: Saravan Forest Park, north of Iran)

Abstract

The aim of this research was to evaluate the economic values of Saravan Forest Park, north of Iran. The contingent valuation method was used for this propose. In order to do this research, 480 questionnaires were used. The questionnaires were distributed randomly among the visitors in different seasons. A linear logit regression model was used to estimate the relation between dependent and independent variables. The software including MS Excel, Eviews and Shazam was used for statistical analysis of variables, mathematical calculation and parameter estimation of the logit model. Results indicated that the variables such as proposed entrance fee, monthly income, non-governmental organization membership, moralizing view on the environment and natural resources as well as length of stay have significant effects on willingness to pay for the recreational use of the study area. Results showed that 91.19% of people were willing to pay for the recreational value of the forest park. Results also showed that the total annual recreational value of the forest park is 22,761.6 million IRR.