Hikers frequently claim that livestock grazing in Wilderness Recreation Areas reduces the satisfaction of their recreational hiking experience.What is the economic explanation for this conflict
A)Hikers do not value livestock as much as ranchers.
B)Grazing cows create negative externalities that make hiking less pleasant.
C)Ranchers are insensitive to the recreational use of public lands.
D)Grazing cows is a profit-generating activity, but hiking is not.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The economic explanation for this conflict is that grazing cows create negative externalities that make hiking less pleasant. These negative externalities include trampled or destroyed trails, disturbed wildlife habitats, and cow feces, which can negatively impact the environment and create an unpleasant hiking experience for recreational users. Hikers may be willing to pay more for the preservation of the wilderness environment and the enjoyment of an uninterrupted hiking experience, whereas ranchers may prioritize profit from their livestock. Thus, the conflict between hikers and ranchers arises due to differences in preferences and the externalities created by grazing cows.

Hikers Frequently Claim That Livestock Grazing in Wilderness Recreation Areas