11 Combining TCM and CVM of endangered species conservation programme: estimation of the marginal value of vultures (Gyps fulvus) in the presence of species–visitors interaction1 (original) (raw)
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VALUATION OF WILDLIFE: REVISING SOME ADDITIONAL CONSIDERATIONS FOR SCOPE TESTS
Contemporary Economic Policy, 2009
In this article, we build on previous valuation studies to contribute to the understanding of preferences toward conservation of endangered species elicited via willingness to pay. In particular, we assess the effect of the existence of biological substitutes of local endangered species. We also incorporate biological concepts such as the minimum viable population level into the valuation scenario. Furthermore, the role of ethical and environmental beliefs and their relationship with preferences toward conservation levels are explored. Results are discussed and contrasted with previous studies. (JEL Q2)
Journal for Nature Conservation, 2009
In this study we used the Travel Cost (TCM) and Contingent Valuation Methods (CVM) to estimate the value of an endangered species. We also determined the break even point in the allocation of funds targeted at protection at the regional level and performed a cost benefit analysis of conservation efforts on a national level. The Griffon Vulture, Gyps fulvus, was the animal tested in our case study in Israel. The Griffon Vulture is an endangered species whose protection is crucial in maintaining the natural ecosystem but whose protection is quite costly. We used TCM at two nature reserves in Israel: Gamla Nature Reserve in the Golan Heights; and Hai-Bar Nature Reserve on Mount Carmel. CVM was implemented at both sites and within a sample of the general population. TCM results showed an economic benefit of 2.4 M. USD per year at Hai-Bar and of 2.94 M. USD per year at Gamla. CVM results showed a willingness to pay (WTP) for protecting vultures of 2.70 M. USD at Gamla and 0.98 M. USD at Hai-Bar. The value of the marginal vulture was found to be approximately 8500 USD at Gamla and 79,000 USD at Hai-Bar. The cost of protecting vultures was taken from the financial reports of the Israel Nature Reserves and Parks Authority and was found to be 19,000 USD per year. The economic efficiency of feeding stations was examined from two aspects: Break-even point: It was found that in order to be economically efficient, the feeding station should help increase the vulture population by an average of at least 0.24 individuals per year at Hai-Bar and by at least 2.20 individuals per year at Gamla.“Porsim Kanaf” project1: The cost of protecting one vulture according to the budget of the National project was calculated to be 6500 USD per year. It was shown that the project passes a Cost-Benefit test based on the valuation results.