OHV Economic Study – Please Read

A new report is now available from Arizona State Parks and Trails and the University of Arizona highlighting the economic value of trails to Arizona residents, based on the benefits to those using them. The report estimates statewide demand for motorized and non-motorized trails and highlights the importance of providing trail-based recreational opportunities for residents and visitors alike.

I have not read the whole study yet, it is long, but here is a snap shot of some key facts.

• In the past year, Arizonans used trails in the state for non-motorized recreation an estimated 83,110,000 times, and for motorized recreation an estimated 20,117,000 times.
• An estimated 59.2% of Arizona’s adult population (or 3,073,100 Arizonans) engaged in non- motorized trail use in the past year, and an estimated 24.4% of the adult population (1,263,600 Arizonans) engaged in motorized trail use in the past year. Some trail users participate in both non-motorized and motorized trail recreation.
• Non-motorized trail users averaged 27.0 trail visits in the past year, and motorized trail users averaged 15.9 trail visits. Economic value of trails in Arizona
• The economic value (consumer surplus) derived from non-motorized trail use in Arizona by in- state residents, based on a midpoint estimate, is $8.3 billion per year, with model estimates ranging between $6.2 billion and $10.6 billion. The economic value (consumer surplus) derived from motorized trail use in Arizona by in-state residents is an estimated $5.2 billion per year.
• Per visit consumer surplus for non-motorized trail use ranged between $90.32 and $128.03, depending on travel cost model assumptions, with a midpoint estimate of $100.06.
• Per visit consumer surplus for motorized trail use was an estimated $259.17.

Here is a link to get the whole study, check it out.

https://d2umhuunwbec1r.cloudfront.net/gallery/0004/0044/1CC5A069C48E493E8A805865298E743F/AZ%20Trails%20Economic%20Value_Full%20Report_3-30-2020_FINAL.pdf