(11/30/05) ASBPA Calls for Communities to Conduct Beach Surveys

ASBPA is asking communities to collect data on the users of our nation’s beaches that can be used to answer some arguments from the federal Office of Management and Budget economists. First, the extent to which beaches in any state are used by people from other states. There is a tendency for federal officials to believe that New Jersey beaches are used only by people from New Jersey, Florida beaches are used only by people from Florida, etc. Second, the extent to which people who live in states without beaches use the nation’s beaches. I have heard federal economists say: “Why should the people of Iowa pay for beaches in Florida?” This survey may help show why. Please download the following forms for use in your community.