Recreational Valuation of Groundwater in Yazd-Ardakan Plain

Diversity in natural aspects for relaxation, entertainment as well as recreational opportunities associated with walking, sightseeing, camping near wells, qanats, and springs to spend leisure time and to enjoy landscapes, represents the recreational values which can be perceived due to surface water limitations. Recreational value of water includes the benefits derived from those who leave water resources and their attributes intact for others. Areas with groundwater resources (Chack-Chack, Gharbalbiz, Tamehre and Darehghahan) in Yazd- Ardakan plain attract many tourists annually. This study endeavors to determine the recreational value of groundwater resources of Yazd- Ardakan plain and to elicit visitors’ willingness to pay using contingent valuation method. To collect data, a questionnaire with a single-bounded dichotomous choice format was developed in 2009. Results reveal that the total recreational value and the household’s recreational value are 1.38 billion Rials and 11280 Rials, respectively. Considering the weighted mean of WTP, the entrance fee for water-based recreation areas would be 4700 Rials. These estimates provide rational justification for policy makers and managers to support the conservation of water-based recreational areas.