Prioritization of Users in Ecosystem Service Valuation: Implications for the Design of Differentiated Conservation...

Ecosystem Services (ESs) valuation is a fundamental tool for understanding the interrelationships between society and the benefits provided by ecosystems, especially in contexts with specific territorial characteristics. This study aimed to analyze the relationship between the educational level and the prioritization of ESs in the Laguna de Bustillos basin, located in Cuauhtémoc, Chihuahua, Mexico, to provide elements for the design of differentiated and adaptive public policies aimed at ecosystem conservation. The methodology used consisted of the application of structured surveys to collect socioeconomic information and identify the presence and perceived value of provisioning, regulating, cultural, and supporting ESs. Data analysis was conducted using the nonparametric Kruskal-Wallis test and Principal Component Analysis (PCA). The results showed a higher prevalence of provisioning services (64%), followed by supporting (60%) and cultural services (59%), whereas regulating services were less prevalent (54%). Statistically significant differences were found in ES valuation according to users' educational level. The PCA revealed two structural components: one associated with provisioning and regulating services, and another related to cultural and supporting services. These findings support the proposal of differentiated conservation strategies aligned with the social priorities of various educational groups. It is concluded that public conservation policies must incorporate the diversity of social perceptions as an essential element for achieving sustainable and participatory environmental management.