Estimating Recreation Value of Forest Parks of Mashhad: Application of Conditional Valuation Method

In this study, recreation value of forest parks of Mashhad and willingness to pay (WTP) of visitors were determined by using conditional valuation method (CVM) and dichotomous choice questionnaire. Factors affecting visitor's willingness to pay were determined with Logit model. Results of the study showed that 87 percent of respondents were ready to pay for recreational use of forest parks of Mashhad. Average willingness to pay was 1287 rails for each visit and total recreational value per year was more than 6300 Million Rails. Results indicated that family size, income and importance of natural resources protection were among significant factors affecting willingness to pay.