The Cost of Having Fun - Costs Of Wildlife-related Recreation

Many Americans enjoy participating in recreation that involves wildlife. Fishing and hunting are some of the most popular forms of recreation in the United States, and increasing numbers of people enjoy watching, photographing, and feeding wild animals and birds. According to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, more than eighty-two million U.S. residents fished, hunted, and observed wildlife in 2001.

The U.S. Department of the Interior's 2001 National Survey of Fishing, Hunting, and Wildlife-Associated Recreation found that in 2001 Americans spent more than $108 billion on wildlife-related recreation. Fishing accounted for approximately 32% of that expense, wildlife-watching activities accounted for 36%, and hunting for 19%. Another 13% was unspecified. (See Figure 2.4.) Of the expenditure by sportspersons, 59% was for equipment, 28% was trip-related, and 13% was for other items. (See Figure 2.5.)

Americans who enjoyed watching wildlife spent an estimated $38.4 billion in 2001. Of that amount, 63% was for equipment, 20% was trip related, and 17% was other (such as magazines, membership dues, and contributions to conservation or wildlife-related organizations). (See Figure 2.6.) Although the number of participants had declined somewhat, those who did participate spent more—on more expensive equipment—than previously.

FIGURE 2.4

FIGURE 2.5

FIGURE 2.6

Expenditures by wildlife recreationists, including funds generated by licenses and taxes on fishing and hunting equipment, finance many conservation efforts throughout the United States. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service calls wildlife recreationists "the nation's most ardent conservationists" because they not only underwrite conservation efforts but also take the time to introduce children and adults to the pleasures of the outdoors and wildlife.