Toward A More Direct Measure Of River User Preferences

Previously identified motivations are expressed in terms of environmental elements. The preferences of river users for these elements are clustered into “packages” or “sets.” Additional analytical methods help to determine the relationship of the various elements and to identify those elements which are critical within a set. The objective of the approach is to provide the individual with a more direct means of stating his or her preferences. There is a fundamental need to refine the units of analysis, (i.e., the specific items individuals are asked to respond to) and thus improve communications between planners, managers, researchers and the public.