Economic Valuation of Ecosystem Functions and Services of Shadegan Wetland at Different Water Supply Levels

Articles in Press

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

1 Department of Water Engineering, Wastewater and Environment. Faculty of Civil Engineering, Water and Environment. Shahid Beheshti University. Tehran. Iran.

2 Associate Professor, Department of Water Engineering, Wastewater and Environment, Faculty of Civil Engineering, Water and Environment, Shahid Beheshti University, Tehran, Iran.

10.22059/jwim.2025.400742.1252

Abstract

Shadegan Wetland, designated under the Ramsar Convention and recognized for its international importance, is located in the southwest of Iran, north of the Persian Gulf. With its high species diversity and extensive ecosystem services, the wetland plays a key role in biodiversity conservation, climate regulation, and supporting local livelihoods. The present study aims to conduct a comprehensive economic valuation of the wetland and to analyze changes in its value across different functional levels.

The methodology involved classifying wetland services into three levels: the minimum environmental flow requirement (basic ecological functions), the normal hydrological condition (optimal vegetation cover and primary ecological services), and the optimal inundation level (maximizing all services including fishing and recreation). The economic value of each level was estimated using willingness-to-pay surveys, market-based approaches, and production-based valuation methods.

Results indicate that the economic value of the wetland is approximately IRR 86 billion under the first level, increasing to IRR 2,568 billion when all services and the presence of rare bird species are considered. This significant difference highlights the necessity of restoring and maintaining the wetland’s full functionality. Given the threats posed by climate change and human pressures, integrated water resource management across the Jarrahi–Zohreh Basin and the adoption of strong conservation policies are essential.

Keywords

Main Subjects

Water and Irrigation Management

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 30 November 2025

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