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Valuing recreational ecosystem services: a case study for Sal (Shorea robusta) forests
Md Abdur Rahman Forhad1, Naeema Jihan Zinia2, Carlos Muñoz Piña3
1Economic and Public Policy Research Group, Department of Humanities and Social Sciences, Dhaka University of Engineering and Technology (DUET), Gazipur, Bangladesh.
This study valued Sal forest ecosystem services in Bangladesh using the contingent valuation method. Visitors showed a willingness to pay significantly higher entrance fees, especially during peak seasons, for improved recreational experiences.
Area of Science:
- Ecology
- Environmental Economics
- Conservation Science
Background:
- Sal (Shorea robusta) forests provide vital ecosystem services.
- Bhawal National Park in Bangladesh faces pressures on its natural resources.
- Quantifying recreational value is essential for effective conservation and ecotourism management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To estimate the recreational economic value of Sal forest ecosystem services.
- To determine visitors' willingness to pay (WTP) for improved nature-based recreation.
- To inform ecotourism policies for sustainable forest management.
Main Methods:
- Contingent Valuation Method (CVM) applied to 418 park visitors.
- Probit regression model to analyze visit likelihood and price.
- Double-Bounded Dichotomous Choice (DBDC) CVM to estimate WTP.
Main Results:
- Average WTP was BDT 188.99 (USD 1.72), over nine times current fees.
- Visitors willing to pay ~91% more during peak vs. off-peak seasons.
- Significant demand for enhanced recreational facilities and safety.
Conclusions:
- Recreational value of Sal forests is substantial and underestimated.
- Current entrance fees do not reflect the perceived value by visitors.
- Findings support increased investment in ecotourism infrastructure and management for sustainability.
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