The Economic Benefits of Wilderness: Focus on Property Value Enhancement

March 1, 2004

In this report, The Wilderness Society reviews several of the economic benefits of wilderness. We also report the findings of a new study of enhancement value in rural areas. The study focused on communities near existing and proposed wilderness areas on the Green Mountain National Forest in Vermont.

Key Points:

• Designated wilderness areas on public lands generate a range of economic benefits for individuals, communities, and the nation — among them, the attraction and retention of residents and businesses and the protection of watersheds, recreational opportunities, and scenic vistas.
• A new study shows that wilderness also generates enhanced property values, which translate into financial benefits for residents of communities close to wilderness areas.
• While the positive impact of wilderness on land values is significant, the effect on property tax bills should be negligible. The costs of public services tend to be lower in areas where conservation lands exist, and tax rates should be lower as a result.
• At the same time, enhanced property values could be used to produce revenue for statewide programs to assist local conservation, economic, and community development efforts.

Author: Spencer Phillips