Northern Economics, Inc - Northern Economics Projects



	A Selection of Northern Economics Projects by Topic Area: Utility Industry and Energy Projects Community and Regional Development Projects Transportation Projects Fishery and Aquaculture Projects Port and Harbor Projects Oil, Gas, and Mining Projects Visitor Industry Projects Environmental Valuation Projects Utility Industry and Energy Projects Our services to the energy and utility sector have included economic feasibility assessments of smaller scale projects aimed at providing affordable power to a limited number of potential customers in rural areas as well as assessments of relatively large scale projects intended to serve urban areas. We have experience with demand-side management projects and master planning, and are familiar with generation capacity issues, utility capital costs, market divisions, and other factors important to energy production, transmission, and marketing. Our energy clients include the Alaska Industrial Development and Export Authority, Denali Commission, McGrath Power and Light, Alaska Energy Authority, Alaska Division of Energy, Chugach Electric Association, SRT Group, Inc., and Golden Valley Electric Association. Selected Projects: Alaska Rural Energy Plan (Phase 2B) Client: Alaska Industrial Development and Export Authority, U.S. Department of Agriculture, and Denali Commission Northern Economics analyzed options for reducing the cost and improving the reliability of energy in rural Alaska. Topics included diesel efficiencies, alternative technologies, waste heat, space and water heating, bulk fuel storage, and end use conservation. In addition to identifying alternatives that were judged the most cost-effective, Northern Economics recommended implementation strategies and government policies. Bulk Fuel Storage Project Business Operating Plan Client: Alaska Industrial Development and Export Authority and Denali Commission Northern Economics developed a business operating plan for bulk fuel tank farms in rural Alaska. Remote Alaska communities typically require bulk fuel storage facilities with sufficient capacity to meet their needs for an entire year. The business plan developed by Northern Economics described a communities’ ability to operate a consolidated, code-compliant bulk fuel tank farm and calculated the revenue required to operate, maintain, and refurbish the facility to ensure its sustainability. Market study and Preliminary Business Plan for Development and Commercialization of an Energy Storage and Hydrogen Production System Client: SRT Group, Inc. Northern Economics identified the market opportunities in Alaska for halogen-based processes for electrical energy storage and hydrogen production. The report included cash flow predictions for operable systems in different regions of the State. Economic Analyses of a Small Coal Mine and Coal-Fired Power Plant for McGrath, Alaska Client: McGrath Light and Power Northern Economics conducted a financial analysis of a coal-fired power plant, mining operation, and transportation system for a small electric utility in rural Alaska. Final Environmental Impact Statement for the Northern Intertie Project Client: U.S. Bureau of Land Management Northern Economics prepared the socioeconomic impact analysis and benefit-cost analysis included in the EIS for the proposed Golden Valley Electric Association electrical transmission line between Healy and Fairbanks, Alaska. The 97-mile, 230-kilovolt transmission line is intended to provide reliable, low-cost energy to Fairbanks from the Healy Power Plant and Anchorage area. King Cove Hydroelectric Facility Client: City of King Cove Northern Economics performed a financial analysis of a hydroelectric power project for King Cove, a small fishing community in rural Alaska. Renewable Energy for Kotzebue and Nome Client: Alaska Energy Authority Northern Economics assessed the economic feasibility of renewable electrical power generation and district heating alternatives (hydropower, wind, coal, and biomass) for Kotzebue and Nome, Alaska. Return to the Top Community and Regional Development Projects Northern Economics has helped a long list of communities and regions improve their financial situation by diversifying their economies. We have assisted with development projects as large as an economic recovery plan for an entire borough, and as small as a feasibility analysis for a bowling alley in a remote Alaska village. Clients include the U.S. Minerals Management Service, Alaska Department of Commerce, Community, and Economic Development, Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities, Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation, Kenai Peninsula Borough, Matanuska-Susitna Borough, Lake and Peninsula Borough, Bristol Bay Borough, North Slope Borough, Denali Borough, Municipality of Anchorage, City of Delta Junction, City of King Cove, City of Wasilla, City of Valdez, City and Borough of Juneau, City of Bellingham, City of Unalaska, Southwest Alaska Municipal Conference, Bristol Bay Native Association, Yuut Elitnaurviat Consortium, Salamatof Native Association, Inc., Municipality of Anchorage Heritage Land Bank, Southwest Anchorage Economic Development Corporation, Alaska Municipal Conference, and Denali Commission. Selected Projects: City of Unalaska Economic Development Plan Client: City of Unalaska Northern Economics prepared an economic development plan to enhance existing businesses and to attract or create additional appropriate businesses to better serve residents, businesses, and visitors in the major U.S. fishing port of Unalaska, Alaska. The economic development plan was built upon previous community vision efforts and current comprehensive development planning activities as well as information collected in interviews conducted with numerous stakeholders in the community, including city government staff, industry representatives, and village corporation officials. Mountain View Arts & Cultural District Feasibility Study Client: Municipality of Anchorage Heritage Land Bank Northern Economics conducted a land use study for 25 acres belonging to the Municipality of Anchorage Heritage Land Bank. Tasks included developing a conceptual overview of feasible activities and land uses for the property and recommending several alternative land uses. The study provided a socioeconomic profile of the neighborhood; analyzed existing conditions and four alternative land use concepts; and outlined strategies necessary to implement the proposed land use concepts. Economic Impacts Analysis of Alyeska Lay-offs and an Economic Diversification Strategy for Valdez Client: City of Valdez The economic impacts analysis and diversification strategy prepared by Northern Economics drew from the City of Valdez's comprehensive plan, regional comprehensive economic development strategy (CEDS), and public meetings in which community strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats were discussed. The direct and indirect impacts of job lay-offs were assessed utilizing a regional economic model. The economic diversification strategy identified action statements for three areas: strengthening existing industry, education and training, and public infrastructure development. The strategy included funding and implementation recommendations for the actions identified. Demand and Feasibility Study of Proposed Anchorage Parking Structures Client: Anchorage Parking Authority Northern Economics conducted a demand and feasibility study for new garages to support development in the central business district of Anchorage. Northern Economics consultants conducted a review of existing and future parking demand within the central business district to determine whether sufficient demand exists to justify development of any or all of three proposed new parking facilities. The review included current parking garages, surface lots, metered spaces, and free parking spaces. The financial analysis provided revenue projections for the proposed facilities and the existing parking system. Kotlik Sanitation Facility Feasibility Analysis Client: Alaska Native Tribal Health Consortium Northern Economics was part of a team that conducted a feasibility study of sanitation facilities for Kotlik, Alaska. Northern Economics was responsible for providing an economic analysis, including an evaluation of the net benefits of building new facilities, or expanding existing facilities under different development scenarios. The operating costs, capital costs, debt-servicing costs, and sinking fund costs for repair and replacement were compared to potential revenues to determine the financial feasibility of the sanitation facilities development alternatives. In addition, alternative sources of revenue were explored, including user fees or other fee structures to ensure the sustainability of the operations. Economic Impact Assessment of the Proposed Prison Facility Client: Matanuska-Susitna Borough Northern Economics assessed the economic impacts of building a 2,251-bed correctional facility in the Matanuska-Susitna Borough, Alaska. The proposed facility would cost an estimated $303.9 million to build and have an annual operating cost of about $60 million. The impacts on the regional economy were evaluated based on the direct, indirect, and induced employment, labor income, value-added, and tax revenues that would potentially result from the construction and operation and maintenance investments. North Slope Economy, 1965 to 2005 Client: U.S. Minerals Management Service Northern Economics prepared this study to provide a historical region-wide perspective of the changes in the economy of the North Slope. Information from the study establishes an analytical baseline for environmental impact statements and other National Environmental Policy Act documentation for oil and gas lease sales, development and production plans, and related Outer Continental Shelf activity in the Beaufort Sea, Chukchi Sea, and Hope Basin planning areas. The study explored structural changes in the regional economy that have had significant institutional and social impacts. The study included an analysis of revenue and expenditure patterns of the North Slope Borough and other local governments; changes in employment and economic activities in the region; the role of the regional and village for-profit corporations in the economy; the role of federal and state governments, tribal governments, and non-profit organizations; and household responses to economic change. Girdwood Industrial Park Feasibility Study Client: Municipality of Anchorage Heritage Land Bank To prepare this industrial park feasibility study for Girdwood, Alaska, Northern Economics reviewed prior and current engineering studies of municipal land zoned for industrial development in the community. Appraisal reports and economic forecasts were reviewed and local business owners interviewed. The information obtained from these sources was used to develop market absorption rates for potential leases or land sales. Yuut Elitnaurviat People's Learning Center Feasibility Study Client: Yuut Elitnaurviat Consortium Northern Economics teamed with Livingston Slone, Inc. to conduct a feasibility study for the Yuut Elitnaurviat People’s Learning Center in Bethel, Alaska. This vocational learning center is intended to help local residents fill the high wage jobs in the Yukon Kuskokwim Delta region. Northern Economics evaluated the financial feasibility of the project, explored alternative financing schemes, assisted in estimating facility operational costs, and provided an economic and demographic profile of the region to help assess the need for the facility. Economic Geography of Southwest Alaska: The Role of Southwest Alaska in the State Economy Client: Southwest Alaska Municipal Conference In this study, Northern Economics investigated how the regional economy of Southwest Alaska (comprised of four incorporated boroughs and two census areas) functions in relation to the rest of the State. The economic linkages and exchanges among regions were evaluated according to the flow of goods, services, people, and income. The multilevel strategy employed to collect the information required to analyze these economic relationships included a review of existing studies, compilation of secondary data, and primary data collection by means of surveys of households, government entities, and businesses using mail and electronic (Web-based) survey instruments. Adak Reuse Project Client: Alaska Department of Community and Regional Affairs (currently Alaska Department of Commerce, Community, and Economic Development) Northern Economics examined the economic feasibility of public and private reuse of the territory encompassed by the Adak Naval Air Station in the Aleutian Chain. The assessment included an evaluation of reuse options in terms of expected costs to the State of Alaska, probability of occurrence, and employment generation. Sakhalin Island Infrastructure Development Plan Client: Sakhalin Regional Administration, U.S. Agency for International Development, Exxon, Marathon, and Mobil. Northern Economics was the prime contractor on this study conducted for the Sakhalin Regional Administration ( Russia ), several consortia of companies led by Exxon, Marathon, and Mobil, and the U.S. Agency for International Development, to prepare a development plan for physical infrastructure on Sakhalin Island. The plan provided a strategy for undertaking the economic reform and restructuring necessary to establish a sound environment for private and public infrastructure providers, and a strategy for engaging potential investors and lenders. Included in the plan was a long-range strategy for the improvement and development of basic public services, such as electric power and heat (primarily coal-fired), transportation, water, and waste treatment, and for the enhancement of the urban landscape in Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk. Population Projections and Future Demand for Residential Land and Infrastructure in Whatcom County, WA Client: City of Bellingham, Washington In this report, Northern Economics described the potential effects of varying population projections for Whatcom County on expected future demand for residential land, infrastructure, and related public services over a 20-year planning period. The report also addressed timing issues related to providing infrastructure and the costs associated with inadequate or excessive infrastructure capacity. Return to the Top Transportation Projects Northern Economics has extensive experience in transportation economics and travel demand forecasting for major projects, including several studies that involve intermodal and multipurpose facilities. We have developed travel demand models and conducted numerous surveys to assess potential demand and identify customer preferences for rail, highway, and airport projects. Our transportation project clients have included public agencies such as Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities, Anchorage International Airport, Alaska Railroad Corporation, Alaska Industrial Development and Export Authority, and numerous port entities, as well as private companies such as Cominco Alaska and Totem Ocean Trailer Express. Selected Projects: Knik Arm Crossing Draft Environmental Impact Statement Client: Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities Northern Economics prepared the economic and social impact analysis for a proposed vehicular toll bridge crossing Knik Arm between the Municipality of Anchorage (MOA) and Matanuska-Susitna Borough (MSB), Alaska. This $600 million transportation infrastructure project has major implications for existing and projected population and economic growth on both sides of Knik Arm. Northern Economics developed the economic assumptions used in forecasting population, employment, and other parameters with and without the project, and the effects of the proposed bridge crossing on the socioeconomic environment. The work entailed development and analysis of a survey of MOA and MSB residents to determine where people might reside within the region with a Knik Arm crossing, and interviews with a number of potential stakeholders and representatives of major industries to determine how Southcentral Alaska might develop with and without a bridge. This information was incorporated into a regional economic model that developed forecasts of population and employment for the region, and also for use with PlanBuilder software that was used to allocate this growth to traffic analysis zones (TAZs) in the MOA and MSB. The TAZ data were used to assess the regional socioeconomic impacts of the bridge. Makah Ferry Feasibility Study Client: U.S. Bureau of Indian Affairs Northern Economics evaluated potential demand for a regional cross-channel passenger-vehicle ferry service from Neah Bay, Washington to Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Canada. This study provided information on potential ferry passenger volumes for five hypothetical ferry runs. The report results offered supportive information for selection of a route and operational characteristics of the ferry runs. Naknek Crossing Intermodal Economic Impact and Airport Use Study Client: Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities In this study, Northern Economics assessed means to improve access to communities in Southwest Alaska and reduce system-wide transportation operation and maintenance costs. The analysis focused on an extension of the road system to South Naknek, which would possibly enable the State of Alaska to close the Naknek and/or South Naknek airports or transfer them to another entity. The project included an assessment of potential crossing alternatives and their corresponding effects on airport use; an area airport plan for each identified crossing scenario and the associated enplanement forecast; a plan of finance that equitably distributes costs associated with the project; and a benefit-cost analysis intended to improve the quality of policy decisions with respect to crossing alternatives. Assessment of Airport Alternatives for the Anchorage International Airport Client: Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport Northern Economics estimated the impact of six regional capacity alternatives considered for the Anchorage International Airport on jobs, airport payroll, and taxes to the Municipality of Anchorage, along with population distribution and surface transportation costs. One alternative involved moving the airport to the Matanuska-Susitna Borough, while another alternative involved moving only cargo operations. Knik Arm Ferry: Socioeconomic Impacts Client: Matanuska-Susitna Borough, Alaska Northern Economics assessed the economic impacts of a year-round ferry between Port MacKenzie in the Matanuska-Susitna Borough and the Ship Creek, Port of Anchorage, area across Knik Arm. Project work required revenue and traffic forecasting, projections of passenger, vehicle, and cargo use for Port MacKenzie; an estimate of peak commuter and truck vehicles by year and time of day; recommended fares; and suggested levels of service frequency. The study findings were used to augment the environmental assessment prepared for the proposed ferry project. Anchorage International Airport Rail Station Market Identification and Analysis Client: Alaska Railroad Corporation Based on a survey of cruise ship passengers, air travelers, and commuters, Northern Economics identified markets and generated ridership forecasts for a $28 million state-of-the-art central rail station at Anchorage International Airport. Chena Hot Springs to Circle Hot Springs Road Planning Study Client: Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities Northern Economics prepared a planning and economic study for a proposed new road northeast of Fairbanks and an alternative for upgrading the existing highway. The proposed road would link Chena Hot Springs Road to Circle Hot Springs Road/Steese Highway in the Central area and would establish a scenic highway loop via the Chena Hot Springs Road and the Steese Highway north of Fairbanks. A planning level benefit-cost analysis was conducted of alternative road corridors. Return to the Top Fishery and Aquaculture Projects Northern Economics is one of the nation’s leading economics consulting firms for fisheries issues. Staff members have more than 10 years of direct employment with federal regional fishery management councils and more than 20 years of personal participation in the commercial fisheries off Alaska and the Pacific Northwest. Clients for fisheries management and fish marketing analyses include the North Pacific Fishery Management Council, Pacific Fishery Management Council, Pacific States Marine Fisheries Commission, NOAA Fisheries-Alaska Regional Office, NOAA Fisheries-Pacific Islands Regional Office, NOAA Fisheries-Northwest Regional Office, Alaska Department of Fish and Game, Washington Department of Natural Resources, Alaska Crab Coalition, Pacific Seafood Processors Association, Norwegian Seafood Export Council, Central Bering Sea Fishermen's Association and other Western Alaska Community Development Quota groups, and Alaska Commercial Fishing and Agriculture Bank. Selected Projects: Alaska Groundfish Fisheries Programmatic Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement Client: NOAA Fisheries-Alaska Regional Office This programmatic Environmental Impact Statement serves as the central environmental document supporting the management of the Bering Sea/Aleutian Islands and Gulf of Alaska groundfish fisheries in the Exclusive Economic Zone off Alaska. The scientific information and analytical discussions are intended to provide a broad, comprehensive analysis of the general environmental consequences of fisheries management and provide an overarching analytical framework that will be used to define future management policy. Northern Economics was responsible for describing and analyzing current knowledge about the economic aspects of the groundfish fisheries off Alaska, assessing the economic impacts resulting from past and present fishery activities, and describing the potential economic consequences of alternative policy approaches and their corresponding management regimes for management of the groundfish fisheries. The analysis included an assessment of current contributions of the groundfish processing sector to community and regional economies using an input-output model with income and employment multipliers derived by the NOAA Fisheries Northwest Fisheries Science Center. A Survey of U.S. Salmon Markets Client: Norwegian Seafood Export Council The purpose of this study conducted by Northern Economics was to provide a comprehensive assessment of how the U.S. market for salmon products has changed over the past two decades and to determine how current market trends will shape consumption and trade patterns in the future. The study reviewed prior salmon market research; examined changes in consumption trends using data from the National Fisheries Institute’s annual estimates of per capita consumption of salmon products; analyzed fifteen years of U.S. trade data from 1989 to 2004 to determine how U.S. salmon imports changed during that period and to identify emerging trends; and conducted a survey of salmon market participants and experts.. Pacific Coast Groundfish Fishery Management Plan Bycatch Reduction Program Environmental Impact Statement Client: Pacific States Marine Fisheries Commission This environmental impact statement analyzed the Pacific Fishery Management Council's objectives for its Pacific Coast groundfish fishery bycatch mitigation program and evaluates alternative programs to achieve those objectives. Drawing on a wide array of theoretical and applied studies, Northern Economics developed a qualitative economic assessment of alternative approaches to reduce bycatch, including fleet reduction through buybacks, sector allocations and potential development of cooperatives, area closures and establishment of marine protected areas, requirements of full retention, and the development of individual transferable quotas. The World Geoduck Market and the Potential for Geoduck Aquaculture on Washington State Lands Client: Washington Department of Natural Resources Northern Economics conducted an in-depth study of the world market for geoduck, the world’s largest burrowing clam. The potential for the geoduck market to change is considerable as private culture companies in Washington compete with the wild fishery for access to public tidal lands. With the permission of the client, the study findings have been presented to numerous groups, including representatives of the Puget Sound treaty tribes. Initial and Final Regulatory Flexibility Analyses of Critical Habitat Designation for West Coast Salmon and Steelhead Client: NOAA Fisheries-Northwest Region and NOAA Fisheries-Southwest Region Northern Economics examined the economic impacts on small entities of the designation of critical habitat for 19 evolutionarily significant units of endangered or threatened salmon and steelhead in the Pacific Northwest and California. The analyses estimated the impacts on each of 12 industry sectors by county and watershed in Washington, Idaho, Oregon and California. Included were an estimate of the number of small entities to which the regulation would apply, an estimate of the compliance costs of the regulation, and a determination of whether compliance costs would impose a substantial cost burden on small businesses. Fishery Management Plan for the Pelagic Fisheries of the Western Pacific Region Final Environmental Impact Statement Client: NOAA Fisheries—Pacific Islands Region The analysis prepared by Northern Economics for this EIS evaluated the economic effects of an array of management alternatives for pelagic fisheries in the Exclusive Economic Zone surrounding the U.S-affiliated Pacific islands, including Hawaii, Guam, American Samoa, and the Northern Marianas. The pelagic fisheries discussed were the longline, handline, pole-and-line, troll, recreational, and charter fisheries. The economic impacts analysis included projections of changes in the fishing industry resulting from court-ordered area closures intended to reduce interactions between sea turtles and the Hawaii pelagic longline fishery. An Assessment of the Socioeconomic Impacts of the Western Alaska Community Development Quota Program Client: Alaska Department of Commerce, Community and Economic Development Northern Economics conducted this comprehensive assessment of the socioeconomic effects of the Western Alaska Community Development Quota (CDQ) Program. The CDQ program was developed in 1992 as a means of extending the economic opportunities of the productive fisheries in the Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands area to rural communities located near these resources. Previous literature and federal and state reports on the CDQ program were reviewed, summarized and presented in an annotated bibliography. In addition, available demographic information about CDQ communities was compiled from U.S. Census data and other sources. The past and current organizational structure, goals, revenues, royalties, quota shares, fishing industry partners, employment, training/scholarship programs, investment programs, and development programs for each CDQ group were described. In order to assess the economic effects of the CDQ program on community residents, adjusted gross income data by zip code were used to compare income in CDQ communities with non-CDQ communities in the same boroughs or designated census areas. Finally, over 400 surveys were sent to community leaders in CDQ communities to supplement information from externally compiled data sets and to assess community awareness of the CDQ program. Return to the Top Port and Harbor Projects Northern Economics has extensive experience in waterfront and harbor development planning and has played a pivotal role in the expansion of many port facilities. We have investigated demand, feasibility, and access issues for small boat harbors, general cargo docks, cruise ship terminals, bulk materials terminals, and fuel terminals. The scale of these projects has ranged from large deep-draft ports at Anchorage and Dutch Harbor to barge landings at Kuskokwim and Yukon River communities. Our clients include the Port of Anchorage, Port of Kodiak, Alaska Industrial Development and Export Authority, City of Unalaska, City of Chignik, City of Wrangell, and City of Valdez. Selected Projects: Harbor Economic Impact Model for the State of Alaska Client: State of Alaska Northern Economics developed an economic impact model that quantifies the benefits of Alaska harbor facilities at the local, regional, and state levels, and provides a standardized measure of economic impacts that allows decision-makers to evaluate projects more effectively and efficiently. The model is a user-friendly tool that project proponents can use to generate reports showing the value of the harbor investments on the financial position of the harbor, the fiscal effects on the community and/or regional government, and the economic effects on the community, regional entity, and/or the state. This information can be used to support local funding decisions and requests for state and federal matching funds, as well as provide information to local residents on the value of a harbor to their economy. Port of Anchorage Master Plan: Strategic Marketing Plan Client: Port of Anchorage Northern Economics assessed the demand for Port of Anchorage facilities and services based on Alaska's natural resource and visitor industry production levels; profiled competitor ports; described inbound and outbound cargo flows; and identified markets in which the Port could expand. Unalaska Ten-Year Port and Harbor Development Plan Client: City of Unalaska Northern Economics prepared a 10-year development plan for the City of Unalaska/Port of Dutch Harbor to identify, evaluate, rank, and schedule projects for development and funding. The plan analyzed current and future conditions at the Port, including the competitive environment, and provided recommendations about facilities and services to offer, capital project priorities, scheduling, and financing and funding strategies. Interviews with fish processors, fishing vessel owners and operators, and various policymakers were conducted to determine anticipated changes in the fishing fleet composition over the next ten years. Valdez Small Boat Harbor Mater Plan Client: City of Valdez Northern Economics evaluated various projections for population and visitor activities that could affect the small boat harbor in Valdez, Alaska, thereby providing a preliminary forecast for activity levels at the harbor in the coming years and a context for making long-range planning decisions. The study examined the demand for space and services from recreational boaters, tour and charter operators, and businesses offering kayak rentals, skiff rentals, and seaplane rides. Return to the Top Oil, Gas, and Mining Projects Northern Economics understands the oil, gas, and mining industry in Alaska and elsewhere. Our staff members have worked on North Slope oil and gas projects and Alaska's largest mining projects. These projects have included environmental impact statements of oil. natural gas, and mineral resource development; economic evaluations of construction and operation of natural gas handling facilities, replacement of Trans-Alaska Pipeline System line segments, and Outer Continental Shelf oil exploration; simulation models estimating support industry activity with varying oil prices; and market and financial analyses of proposed mines. Clients include the U.S. Mineral Management Service, U.S. Bureau of Land Management, Alaska Department of Revenue, Alaska Department of Natural Resources, Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities, Washington State Department of Ecology, Alaska Natural Gas Development Authority, North American Natural Gas Producers Group, Pacific Star Energy, Phillips Petroleum Company, Alyeska Pipeline Services Company, ARCO Alaska, BP Exploration, and Anadarko Petroleum Corporation. Selected Projects: Benefits Analysis of ANGDA Natural Gas Project Client: Alaska Natural Gas Development Authority Northern Economics developed a spreadsheet model that provides comprehensive measures of the economic benefits of the Alaska Natural Gas Development Authority’s (ANGDA) natural gas project. The model incorporates the benefits of natural gas infrastructure development, in-state use of natural gas and natural gas liquids for power generation and industrial uses such as small-scale manufacturing of petrochemical products, and operations associated with processing and transporting natural gas. The model was designed to accommodate changes in prices, quantities of natural gas produced, size of operations, size of pipeline, financing structure, and other assumptions. The model outputs include jobs and labor income generated, payments to local and state government including severance, royalties, corporate income taxes, and property taxes, power cost equalization savings to the State of Alaska, total industry output or gross sales, increase in Permanent Fund Dividend checks, amount of taxes avoided by a typical household, and changes in household utility bills. Buckhorn Mountain Mine Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement Client: Washington State Department of Ecology Northern Economics completed a Socioeconomic Discipline Report and Recreational Discipline Report describing the socioeconomic and recreational impacts of proposed operating alternatives for an underground gold and silver mine on Buckhorn Mountain, located near Chesaw, Washington. The environmental and social impacts of the proposed mining operations have been the subject of much public debate. The detailed analyses prepared by Northern Economics, which included the effects of both the mining and milling operations, were incorporated into the supplemental environmental impact statement. Economic Impact Study of Natural Gas Exploration and Production from the Foothills Region of North Brooks Range. Client: Anadarko Petroleum Corporation Northern Economics evaluated the potential economic impacts of natural gas exploration, development, and production activities of the Anadarko Petroleum Corporation in the Brooks Range Foothills. This study was used by Anadarko to support its bid on the State of Alaska’s royalty gas. Input-output models of the North Slope Borough and State of Alaska were used to estimate the direct, indirect, and induced effects of gas exploration and development on employment, revenues to the state and local governments, labor income, and gross state product. Assessment of the Contribution of Red Dog Mine Operations to the Economy of the Northwest Arctic Borough Client: Alaska Industrial Development and Export Authority The Red Dog Mine located near Kotzebue, Alaska is the world’s largest zinc mine. Northern Economics quantified the relative importance of mine operations with respect to employment and income in the Northwest Arctic Borough using an input-output model of the regional economy. The impacts measured included payments to labor, payments to the vendors that supply Red Dog Mine's inputs, royalty payments to the regional Alaska Native corporation (NANA Regional Corporation), and PILOT payments (payments in lieu of taxes) to the Borough. Return to the Top Visitor Industry Projects While many Northern Economics studies have included a visitor market component, we are increasingly involved in projects with tourism development as a primary focus. Projects range from conducting statewide studies of this growing economic sector to assisting particular visitor facilities that are exploring options for expansion. To date, our clients have included the Alaska Department of Community and Economic Development, Bellingham/Whatcom Convention and Visitors Bureau, Anchorage Civic and Convention Center—Yes, Municipality of Anchorage, Alaska Museum of Natural History, Anchorage Museum of History and Art, and the City of Fairbanks. Selected Projects: Alaska Visitor Statistics Program IV Client: Alaska Department of Community and Economic Development, Division of Tourism The Alaska Visitors Statistics Program (AVSP) is a significant visitor industry research project conducted periodically by the State of Alaska. The AVSP provides the state and the visitor industry with critical data on the visitors that travel to Alaska. These data include information on the number of visitors, general demographic and other characteristics of the visitor population, as well as information on visitor expenditures, activities, and opinions. Northern Economics developed visitor surveys, prepared a sampling plan, and conducted interviews to determine the number and composition of visitors by entry mode, trip purpose, and place of origin. The surveys assessed visitor expenditure patterns and satisfaction with all major components of the Alaska experience and identified characteristics and interests of first-time and repeat visitors. Visitor Profile for Bellingham/Whatcom County, Washington Client: Bellingham/Whatcom Convention and Visitors Bureau Northern Economics prepared a tourism market study in Whatcom County, Washington based on intercept surveys conducted with almost 700 visitors. The study included a trend analysis (comparing findings to information collected with a similar survey in 1993) and an analysis of primary findings for summer and fall/winter visitors. The study included demographic information on visitors, length of stay, information on trip objectives and trip planning, overall opinions of Bellingham/Whatcom County, activities and interests, and expenditures. Sustainable Tourism and Recreation Tax Alternatives Client: Alaska Tourism Industry Association Northern Economics investigated the means of funding an annual, statewide tourism marketing program, with revenues provided by sustainable tourism and recreation-related taxes. The intent was to determine the best means of raising $20 million annually and to progressively reach a sum of $40 million in five years, with the purpose of using new tax revenues raised from tourism and recreation sources within the State of Alaska for marketing the State as a visitor destination for outside residents. Economic Analysis of the Proposed Anchorage Civic and Convention Center Client: Anchorage Civic and Convention Center—Yes Northern Economics conducted this study to assess the economic impacts of a proposed new Anchorage Civic and Convention Center Complex on the Anchorage economy. The study examined current usage of the Egan Center, national market demand for convention space, potential fiscal impacts, financing arrangements and risk sharing, and economic benefits of the proposed convention center. A primary focus of the study was to identify and evaluate different funding options for the facility. Among the options that Northern Economics examined was a hotel bed tax, which was eventually adopted through a public referendum. Alaska Museum of Natural History Market Analysis and Feasibility Study Client: Alaska Museum of Natural History Northern Economics prepared a feasibility study to identify a suitable approach to creating a new Alaska Museum of Natural History in Anchorage. The study developed attendance forecasts for a larger facility based on a concept plan created by an architectural firm, estimated future revenues and expenditures, and identified funding sources for the facility. Economic Impacts of Expansion of the Anchorage Museum of History and Art Client: Anchorage Museum of History and Art Northern Economics conducted a quantitative analysis of the economic impacts of the proposed Anchorage Museum of History and Art expansion project. The analysis examined the financial impacts on Museum operations, fiscal impacts to the Municipality of Anchorage, and economic impacts to the community of Anchorage. The study also assessed the impacts of the expansion project on property taxes. Morris Thompson Cultural and Visitors Center Client: City of Fairbanks Northern Economics developed a business plan for the proposed Morris Thompson Cultural and Visitors Center, a facility in Fairbanks, Alaska that would be dedicated to preserving the cultural and natural history of Interior of Alaska and providing educational opportunities for visitors and residents. Visitor estimates were based on historical usage of comparable visitor facilities in Fairbanks and Anchorage and projected forward for the first several years of operations based on current trends in the visitor industry. Northern Economics also provided feedback on the marketing and operational issues of attracting and serving visitors. Since the Center would not charge visitors for admission, funding and financing strategies were developed to ensure that the facility would remain viable. Northern Economics developed an initial business plan for the facility that consolidated all of this information in a useful format that the partners could use and expand upon as the Center's concept evolved. Return to the Top Environmental Valuation Projects Over the years, Northern Economics has prepared many studies that have examined the impacts of economic development on the natural environment. Currently, we are expanding our involvement in projects that focus more directly on resource valuation and the benefits and costs of conservation. Our clients for environmental valuation projects have included the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Sauk-Suiattle Indian Tribe, King County, Washington, and the City of Unalaska. Selected Projects: Economic Analysis of the Sauk River for Petition of Tier III Designation Client: Sauk-Suiattle Indian Tribe Northern Economics completed a study of the economic value of preserving the pristine Sauk River and Sauk River Forks watersheds using non-market and market valuation methods. The study was used by the Sauk-Suiattle Indian Tribe as part of a petition to the Washington Department of Ecology for Tier III Designation of the watersheds. Review of "The Benefits of Instream Flow in New Hampshire's Rivers Management and Protection Program" Client: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Northern Economics completed a peer review of a draft report to provide information on instream water values for selected streams in New Hampshire. The report was part of a broad effort to develop instream flow regulations for major rivers in New Hampshire. Flow standards are intended both to protect instream resources like water quality and fisheries and to allow for public benefits, including recreation and public water supplies. Southeast Maury Island Ecological Economic Evaluation Client: King County Department of Natural Resources and Parks, WA Northern Economics worked with other team members to estimate the total economic value of ecosystem goods and services on and around Maury Island, Washington, and the potential economic loss caused by development activities. Review of “Draft Economic Analysis of Critical Habitat Designation for the Steller's Eider” Client: City of Unalaska Northern Economics reviewed a report prepared for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to assess the economic impacts that may result from designation of critical habitat for the Steller's eider. The report identified current and future land uses and marine activities and assessed whether or not the designation of critical habitat would have any net economic effect in the regions containing the proposed critical habitat designations. Return to the Top Home \| Newsletters \| About Us \| Our People Topics \| Contact Us \| What's New? © 2008 Northern Economics - All Rights Reserved