Modelling the value of wetlands in the Kilombero Valley, Tanzania, using community preferences

Wetland degradation has recently received considerable attention in research. Although wetlands are valuable ecosystems, their actual value is difficult to measure because the services they provide do not have market values. The current study tries to define the value of wetlands in the Kilombero Valley, central Tanzania. Choice modelling is used to determine communities' preferences over wetland conditions associated with various management options. The results show that the inhabitants of the Kilombero Valley desire improvements in the wetland's conditions, suggesting that the ongoing degradation is not socially optimal. Local farmers are however highly dependent on the wetland for their livelihood. In order to reduce pressure on wetlands, it is therefore necessary and imperative to explore the options of alternative income generating activities and the application of proper technologies to improve efficiency and effectiveness in crop production.