README File for Jakus et al. WRR manuscript

Dataset Title: 
Nutrient Criterion Data-Jakus et al. WRR

PI:
Paul M. Jakus
Utah State University
Dept. of applied Economics
UMC 4835
Logan, UT 84322-4835
ORCID 0000-0001-9261-3709
Paul.jakus@usu.edu

Co-PI:
Nanette Nelson
Flathead Lake Biological Station
University of Montana
32125 Bio Station Lane
Polson, MT 59860
Nanette.nelson@flbs.umt.edu

Co-PI:
Jeffrey Ostermiller
Utah Division of Water Quality
P.O. Box 144870
Salt Lake City, Utah 84114-4870
jostermiller@utah.gov

Funding source
Utah Division of Water Quality

Project Abstract
We present a scientific replication of a benthic algae nuisance threshold study originally conducted in Montana, but we do so using a different sampling methodology in a different state. Respondents are asked to rate eight photographs that depict varying algae conditions. Our initial results show that Utah resident preferences for benthic algae levels are quite similar to those of Montana residents, thus replicating the Montana study. For the full Utah sample, though, Cronbach’s ? indicated poor internal consistency in rating the photographs, so a ‘monotonicity rule’ was used to identify respondents providing monotonic preferences with respect to chlorophyll a densities. Simple graphical analyses are combined with ordered probit analysis to determine the maximum desirable density of chlorophyll a (Chl a). Our analysis indicates that Chl a levels in excess of 150 mg Chl a/m2 are undesirable, but the regression model suggests that those with strictly monotonic preferences were far more likely favor a more stringent standard.

Description of files:
File #1: Jakus et al Nutrient Criterion Data Archived for WRR.dta
Stata 15 data (.dta) file created 10-10-17 at 12:01 p.m. All variables have complete labels, including codes.

File #2: Jakus et al Stata Code for WRR.do
Stata 15 code (.do) file that runs creates all statistics reported in WRR manuscript


Definition of acronyms, codes, and abbreviations:
Stata 15 .dta file contains names and codes that are easily cross-checked with the WRR manuscript text and tables (see below).

Descriptions of parameters/variables
Stata 15 .dta file contains names and codes that are easily cross-checked with the WRR manuscript text and tables (see below).

Special software required to use data
Stata 15

Publications that cite or use this data
Revised paper (second review) at Water Resources Research, October 12, 2017.
Jakus, Paul M., Nanette Nelson, and Jeffery Ostermiller. “Using Survey Data to Determine a Numeric Criterion for Nutrient Pollution.”