Other Lake Winnebago System Economic Studies

Winnebago County Water Quality Program Valuation Study
This study, conducted jointly by the Winnebago County Land and Water Conservation Department and University of Wisconsin-Extension, utilized a contingent valuation method to establish a value for water quality.  Contingent valuation is a method often used to attach value to non-market environmental attributes or amenities; in this case for water quality.  A survey was sent to Winnebago County households to assess the “willingness to pay” of residents for the establishment of a water quality program in Winnebago County.  Based on the responses, the typical property owner in Winnebago County was willing to pay $16.62 per year in new and additional taxes for the establishment of a water quality program in Winnebago County.  The Land and Water Conservation Department, based on the results of this study, was able to establish a $100,000 per year water quality improvement program, funded by the County budget.  This program is used to address a myriad of water quality issues throughout the county.  The study demonstrates that a significant monetary value is placed on the integrity and quality of the surface and ground water in Winnebago County.

Winnebago County Water Quality Program Valuation Study (pdf 324kb)