The cost of stress: Low dissolved oxygen and economic benefits of recreational striped bass (Morone saxatilis) fishing in the Patuxent River

Abstract

A Poisson catch rate model for striped bass (Morone saxatilis) anglers in Chesapeake Bay was developed that incorporates the effect of bottom temperature and dissolved oxygen (DO). Angler catch rates are shown to be negatively affected by low DO. Predicted angler catch rates were then used in a random utility model of striped bass fishing location choice. Where anglers choose to fish is significantly related to expected catch rate and the travel cost and time from the anglers residence to the fishing location. Results from the random utility model were then used to simulate the economic welfare changes that result from changing DO levels in the Patuxent River. Since there are many substitute sites for fishing in the Patuxent River, the welfare effects are small. Increases in DO from current levels have a small effect on angler welfare, but if levels are allowed to deteriorate so they never exceed 5 mg l⁻¹, the welfare effects are much larger. Under this latter scenario, the net present value of angler losses exceeds $100,000, and are almost $300,000 if the fishing grounds are anoxic. Losses are considerably higher as the area impacted by low oxygen conditions increases.