filed under: economics of trails
The purpose of this report is to describe the economic, quality of life, public health, and other benefits that Mariposa County and its residents are likely to enjoy from the Merced River Trail based on research and experiences of communities with similar projects.
The Merced River Trail is a proposed recreational resource along the historic Yosemite Valley Railroad (YVRR) grade on the northern banks of the Merced River. The primary emphasis is on a nearly 40-mile segment of trail located entirely within Mariposa County, almost all of which is adjacent to a reach of river that has been designated Wild and Scenic by the federal government. Future trail segments will establish regional nonmotorized connections at the YVRR’s historic downstream terminus in Merced. Nearly 17 miles of the trail are managed for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. Other sections require restoration to clear landslides and improve trail accessibility.
The purpose of this report is to describe the economic, quality of life, public health, and other benefits that Mariposa County and its residents are likely to enjoy from the Merced River Trail based on research and experiences of communities with similar projects.
Published June 01, 2020
Headwaters Economics is an independent, nonprofit research group that works to improve community development and land management decisions. We inform community decision-making and identify practical solutions by making complex data understandable, beautiful, and interactive, helping develop solutions to some of the most urgent and important issues that communities face.
Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans
This second edition of the Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans provides science-based guidance to help people ages 3 years and older improve their health through participation in regular physical activity.
San Jose Trails by the Numbers
San Jose is developing a 100 mile trail network! View the handout!
Promoting Parks and Recreation’s Role in Economic Development
This study builds on previous NRPA research on the economic importance of local park and recreation agencies by exploring the role that quality park amenities play in 21st century regional economic development.
This 1997 paper estimates the value of a relatively new form of recreation: mountain biking. Its popularity has resulted in many documented conflicts, and its value must be estimated so an informed decision regarding trail allocation can be made. A travel cost model (TCM) is used to estimate the economic benefits, measured by consumer surplus, to the users of mountain bike trails near Moab, Utah.
