The Economic Benefits of Wilderness
The 1964 Wilderness Act (Section 4b) recognizes the multiple benefits of wilderness areas: "wilderness areas shall be devoted to the public purposes of recreational, scenic, scientific, educational, conservation, and historical uses." While the act provides a basic framework of
wilderness uses, it does not begin to enumerate all of the uses and benefits of wilderness areas (Driver and others 1987; Rolston 1986; Reed 1989). This paper attempts to summarize these benefits and uses based on a total economic valuation framework.
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Mike Anderson, J.D.
Mike has been with The Wilderness Society since 1985. His main focus is national forest management and policy, ranging from roadless area conservation to watershed restoration. He also helps coordinate all of The Wilderness Society's litigation activities.
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