Mine Water Aquaculture as an Economic Development Strategy: LinkingCoal Mining, Fish Farming, Water Conservation and Recreation

摘要

This study involves a comprehensive economic analysis of mine water aquaculture. First, the costs and benefits are quantified using standard enterprise budgeting and feasibility techniques. Next, a price analysis is conducted to determine the underlying probability distribution and generate confidence intervals for use in planning purposes. Then, the relationships between mine sites and unemployment, and mine sites and tourism, respectively are illustrated using a spatial analysis. Finally, the potential economic development impacts of growth in the aquaculture industry on statewide output, income, and employment are estimated. The results have implications for entrepreneurs and the aquaculture and coal industries in Appalachia and other parts of the US where coal mining can be linked to fish farming, water conservation, and recreation.