Nonmarket Economic Values of Forest Insect Pests : An Updated Literature Review

This report updates the literature review and synthesis of economic valuation studies on the impacts of forest insect pests by Rosenberger and Smith (1997). A conceptual framework is presented to establish context for the studies. This report also discusses the concept of ecosystem services; identifies key elements of each study; examines areas of future research; and includes appendices that further explain nonmarket valuation methods, a narrative of each study, and tables that summarize each study. The primary services affected by insects are restricted in the literature to include recreation, aesthetic or scenic beauty of landscapes, and property values. Monetary metrics across studies include willingness to pay estimates per acre, per person or household, per tree, and/or for various levels of damages. While this literature is limited and heterogeneous, individual studies may prove useful in assessing current and future policies associated with forest insect pests in the United States.