Economic Analyses of Federal Scientific Collections. Methods for Documenting Costs and Benefits
Abstract
Physical objects form the basis of research in many scientific disciplines. Organisms, soil, medical samples, meteorites, and thousands of other types of objects provide the evidence that is central to the missions of many Federal departments and agencies. These missions include research, regulatory responsibilities, and complying with legislation that serve the Nations interests. In many cases, departments and agencies decide to retain objects for long-term preservation in scientific collections, in anticipation of future use or in compliance with regulation or legislation. The long-term support for collections is a commitment of Federal resources without clear evidence of future returns on these investments. History has shown that some of these objects prove to be valuable, even critical, in solving mission-related challenges. They may help to cure diseases, save agricultural crops, avoid natural disasters, and provide other tangible benefits to the Nation. Many others may not have been used since being added to a long-term collection. Faced with their uncertain future value, how can Federal collection officials decide which objects to preserve and which to discard? How can departments and agencies justify the cost of creating and maintaining scientific collections? Are there evidence-based approaches that can reduce the costs and increase the benefits associated with Federal scientific collections?
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 06, 2020
- Accession Number
- AD1118170
Entities
People
- David E. Schindel
Organizations
- Smithsonian Institution