A Model for the Determination of Wildland Resource Values

Excerpts: In December 1967 the Clarke-McNary Section 2 Study Committee of the National Association of State Foresters appointed a "Values-at-Risk Task Force." The responsibility given to the Task Force was to study various possibilities and attempt to develop a simple, workable system for determining on an interim basis the total value of all damageable resources on protected lands. The working group studied these resources by examining written material and interviewing many subject matter specialists. Unfortunately, however, little information was available on some intangible resources, such as life and health, simply because human feelings were involved. So, to accomplish the purpose of this study, it was determined to use the best measurements available. Only direct and "on site" values were considered, while data involving secondary and tertiary benefits were strictly avoided. Thus, beginning with some basic information and generally accepted values, procedures were developed and certain gaps were bridged with the application of other known measures.