This thesis consists of two chapters that explore the impacts of ecosystem threats to recreational fisheries in Michigan using linked participation-site choice demand models. The first chapter analyzes changes in angler behavior in response to state natural resource agency regulations designed to limit the spread of an invasive disease, Viral Hemorrhagic Septicemia virus (VHSv), in the Great Lakes and connecting waterways. We employ the model to identify the combined effect of the disease and associated regulations on angler site choice and trip frequency. Results indicate that anglers significantly alter their behavior at the site choice and participation levels in response to a new disease and its regulations. We expect that natural resource policy makers will utilize these results in developing and maintaining the regulations necessary for the sustainable use of recreational fisheries. The second chapter develops a linked model for inland lakes site choices and participation. In the complex demand model, angler decisions are connected to site and species-specific abundances of game fish at over one thousand inland lake fishing alternatives available in Michigan. Policy scenarios illustrate how ecosystem changes such as altering species abundance affect angler participation and site choices. We find that anglers value walleye more than other species, and monthly trips are significantly affected by walleye abundance, which has important implications since walleye distributions and abundance are expected to be adversely affected by climate change. More generally, the demand system should be a useful tool for agency decision-making to sustain healthy fisheries and retain the angler population.
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