An Empirical Valuation of Meteorological Information

Abstract

The NOAA/EDIS Center for Environmental Assessment Services conducted a benefit-cost study of its publication on assessments of crop-related weather information for foreign countries. As a background for the investigation, a review was conducted of the literature on the theory and methods related to the value and use of information in government programs and private marketing and consumption. Using guidelines suggested by the literature, a questionnaire was designed and the subscribers qualitative and quantitative responses evaluated to determine use of the publication, perceived benefits, and willingness to pay for the publication.