Public Attitude Research
Gasoline Consumption in Recreational Vehicles

Overview

Excise taxes on gasoline burned in recreational engines (i.e. motor boats, snow mobiles, all-terrain vehicles, etc.) are transferred to the DNR to support management and regulation of the sport that generated them. Excise tax levels are based on estimates of gasoline consumption for a given type of activity (motor-boating for example). Existing estimates of gasoline consumption for the various sports were out-dated. This study updates the estimates of gasoline consumption for these sports.

Methods

Researchers used mailed questionnaires to survey boaters, ATV riders and snowmobilers. Between 1999 and 2000, we surveyed these groups on a monthly or bi-weekly basis during their logical activity periods. Estimates of gasoline consumption have been generated along with other information related to a given sport (days of use, issues and concerns about sport, contact with law enforcement officials and assessment of that contact, etc.).

Status

All survey work has been completed. We surveyed approximately 22,000 recreationists, with a response rate of approximately 70%. Draft reports have been prepared for all studies and are currently being finalized. The ATV rider study [PDF 47KB] was finalized in 2002.

For more information in this topic please contact:
Ed Nelson (608)266-8910, or
Jordan Petchenik (608)266-8523