Testing a multiple time series methodology for evaluating natural resources policy: Application to aquatic preserve management

Abstract

During the 1970s, the Florida Legislature developed a statewide system of 35 aquatic preserves with the intent that areas having exceptional biological, aesthetic, and scientific value be set aside forever as aquatic preserves or sanctuaries. Although aquatic preserves have drawn the attention of policy makers in Florida, little is known of the impact of public policy decisions on aquatic preserve quality. Multiple time series analyses are applied to government decision inputs (the number of dredge and fill permits issued) and environmental quality outputs (the number of water quality violations) to test the use of multiple time series methods on natural resources policy data.