REGIONAL ECONOMIC-IMPACT OF THE LAKE TEXOMA (OKLAHOMA TEXAS) STRIPED BASS FISHERY

An economic impact study was conducted in 1990 to determine the region al economic impact of the Lake Texoma sportfishery. Lake Texoma, a 36, 000-hectare impoundment of the Red River on the Oklahoma-Texas border, is nationally recognized for its striped bass (Morone saxatilis) fish ery. Angler expenditures were estimated using data from mail, telephon e, and roving creel surveys. The IMPLAN (IMpact Analysis for PLANning) modelling system was used to evaluate the effect of fishing expenditu res on the regional economy (seven counties bordering the reservoir). In 1990, Lake Texoma anglers contributed an estimated $25.641 million in fishing expenditures to the regional economy. An economic impact an alysis indicated that angler expenditures were directly associated wit h $13.56 million in value added (personal income plus indirect busines s taxes) and 417 jobs in the impact region. Potential impacts (conside ring indirect and induced effects) of angler expenditures included up to $57.392 million in total business sales; $23.273 million in value a dded; and 718 jobs. Nonregional anglers visiting the reservoir to fish for striped bass accounted for 77% of the total expenditures. Factors that influence striped bass fishing activity on Lake Texoma (e.g., ha bitat alterations, management actions) could have substantial effects on the regional economy.