This volume describes what is arguably the first and only valuation study to meet in full the reference study standards set by NOAA?s Blue Ribbon Panel on Contingent Valuation. This book documents a contingent valuation study for a generic environmental good: preventing the likely injuries from oil spills on the coast of Central California. It provides a wealth of materials which will reduce the long lead time which characterizes most economic damage assessments. This is achieved by so richly documenting the design, administration, and analysis of such studies as to be effectively a ?how-to? guide for undertaking state-of-the-art contingent valuation studies. The book is supported by a CD-ROM containing a wealth of additional material, including data, questionnaires, and transcripts. Together they constitute a unique and vital contribution to the literature concerning the valuation of non-market preferences.