Return on Environment: The Economic Value of Protected Open Space in Chester County, Pennsylvania

"This report indicates that protected open space adds significant value to the county’s economy, with benefits for businesses, governments, and households. This value occurs in different ways—some are direct revenue streams to individuals or governments, some represent appreciation in asset values, others are the result of avoided costs. Building off a previous regional report and using standard economic analysis techniques, this report estimates the economic value of protected open space in Chester County by measuring impacts across five areas: property values, environmental benefits, recreation and health, economic activity, and cost of community services."