Grant: 26-035R
Project Title: Valuing Florida's Sea Turtles - Public Perceptions, Conservation Preferences, and Economic Impacts
Project Manager: Dr. Stephen Pratt
Organization: University of Central Florida (Research and Educational Institute)
Grant Amount: $8,778.00
Completion Date:
Summary: This project quantifies the economic and social values of Florida's sea turtles through a mixed-methods study of public perceptions, conservation preferences, and tourism impacts among residents and domestic visitors. Using an online Qualtrics survey (n?700) with contingent valuation scenarios, attitudinal scales, and expenditure questions, complemented by stakeholder interviews at key sites like Loggerhead Marinelife Center, the research will estimate willingness-to-pay for conservation, calculate total economic contributions via IMPLAN multiplier analysis, and identify drivers of engagement using structural equation modeling. The study will deliver updated valuations, policy-relevant insights, and a baseline dataset to guide Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service recovery efforts, ensuring sustainable management of these iconic species amid escalating climate and anthropogenic threats.
Results: