An evaluation of visitor's preferences for improving the environmental status of Hara forests using choice experiment approach (Case study: Hara Biosphere Reserve)

This study aims to estimate the economic benefit of the environmental improvements in the Hara forests of Qeshm using choice experiment method. Improvement in the environmental status were defined within the framework of three related attributes and the respondents were asked about their willingness to pay for conserving and improving the mangrove forests in this area. The obtained data were analyzed using conditional logit model. Results showed that about 78 percent of respondents are willing to pay for environmental improvement alternatives. The attribute of bird species number in the Hara forests provides the highest probability for the visitors to pay for an improvement level (89790 IRR per household per trip). Additionally, females, older and married respondents as well as those with higher educational level are more likely to participate in environmental conservation programs. Our valuation results can help to increase public awareness about the multiple values of mangrove forests and contribute to better-informed public decisions. It also allows policy-makers to prioritize conservation programs and projects with limited and tight budgets.