Economic Evaluation of Zoning Management Supported by Recreational Anglers in Japanese Mountain Streams

In 2008, the Fisheries Agency of Japan compiled a report on zoning management in mountain streams to improve the management of fresh water fisheries cooperatives. This management has several objectives beyond the conservation of native fish, and largely reflects the opinions of non-resident anglers. There are over 43 examples of zoning management that have been introduced in Japan. Among them, the examples that many non-resident anglers tied up have brought results.  

This study aims to review the details of regular non-resident angler’s actions and evaluate their impact. To assess these factors, a Hearing study and the Hypothetical Travel Cost Method (HTCM) were conducted.

Hearing investigation revealed that the reader of the anglers provided many ideas (e.g. The Catch-and-release area, tightening of bag limit etc.) that could not be considered from the traditional management of union member and the anglers contributed more labor power in conducting zoning operations. Further the questionnaire administered to the anglers revealed an improvement of obvious consumer surplus. The responses to the survey were evaluated using HTCM; however certain responses expressing opinions to the management were controversial.

In conclusion, this study attempts to develop a system that complies diverse opinions and present them to the management.