Valuation of Water Level: A Spatial Hedonic Analysis on Lakeshore Properties

Abstract

White Bear Lake, Minnesota, has lost a large amount of water due to excessive groundwater extraction. Using a general nested spatial hedonic pricing model, this paper identifies and evaluates the impact of water loss in the lake on lakeshore properties. In addition to providing a quantitative estimate of property value loss, the results show that the marginal loss intensifies as water level persistently declines further. The findings of this study alert emerging urban areas to the negative externalities of failing to balance the tasks of meeting increased water demand as well as achieving sustainable water use.