Document Type

Thesis

Date of Degree Completion

Fall 2017

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Department

Cultural and Environmental Resource Management

Committee Chair

Toni Sipic

Second Committee Member

Chad Wassell

Third Committee Member

Craig S. Revels

Abstract

This study determines the economic impacts of soil contamination as a result of historical pesticide use in Wenatchee, WA. A hedonic regression analysis of home values before, during, and after cleanups of six contaminated schoolyards demonstrates the public’s willingness to pay for remediated soil as a housing amenity. A qualitative analysis of media coverage of the contamination and cleanups confirms public awareness and categorizes public perception of risk. Results show a significant positive price effect following remediation, and benefit-cost analysis enumerates sizable private and public financial losses incurred as a result of remediation delay.

Language

English

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