Assessing the ecosystem services value of Can Gio Mangrove Biosphere Reserve: Combining earth-observation- and household-survey-based analyses

In this paper we present the results of an ecosystem service value derivation for the Can Gio Mangrove Biosphere Reserve in Vietnam. We combine earth-observation-based mapping at the main species level with the result of an extensive socio-economic household survey to assess the value of direct and indirect ecosystem services provided by Can Gio's mangroves. Remotely sensed optical and radar data from 2011 were used to derive the precise extent of mangrove coverage. Household survey results led to an understanding of the value placed on mangroves by different occupational groups, namely, forest managers, fisherman, shrimp farmers, and other farmers. Common to all is a lack of understanding of the value of a natural resource if no direct income is generated. At the same time, depending on occupation, a clear trend towards appreciating and understanding the importance of mangroves can be observed: it is the highest with local and migratory fisherman, followed by forest managers, while shrimp farmers have the least knowledge about mangrove benefits, and also express the least willingness to further protect them. Values derived from the household surveys as well as secondary sources in combination with remotesensing-based mapping enabled us to determine the ecosystem services value of Can Gio mangroves for selected categories of advantages. (C) 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.