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Old 08-10-2015, 09:59 AM   #5
CaptTom
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City: Southern Maine
Vessel Model: Prairie 36 Coastal Cruiser
Join Date: Dec 2012
Posts: 2,717
Quote:
Originally Posted by O C Diver View Post
Had no idea the canal cost that much to operate. ...Really hate all the government waste, until it's something I want.

Ted
My first reaction was close to Ted's second point. But I spent some time pondering the economics.

I don't think you can just divide the $55M annual operating cost by the roughly 108,000 passages, and charge each boater $510. Actually, 5 nights at a marina in most popular boating cities in the Northeast would cost at least that.

But, the canal doesn't just benefit boaters.

How much should it cost to jog or bicycle along the tow path? How much do you charge the local families who picnic along the banks?

How do you put a price on water management? And how do you divide that price up among all who benefit from it?

What about preserving history, the character and economic viability of the towns along the canal, etc.?

I've come to the conclusion that it just makes sense for society, in the form of taxpayers, to chip in a certain amount. Oh no! Does that make me a socialist?
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