Estimating Benefits of Improving Water Quality in the Largest Remaining Tidal Flat in South Korea

This study, employing contingent behavior approach, examines the benefits of improving water quality in the largest remaining tidal flat in South Korea. The southern tidal flat of Ganghwa Island, a major stopping point for significant numbers of migratory birds on the Austral-Asian flyway, draws thousands of visitors every month. However, the current water quality, degraded due to pollution, negatively affects ecosystem services that the tidal flat provides for many creatures, including the last remaining populations of endangered black-faced spoonbill. Questionnaire surveys targeting visitors to the tidal flat have been conducted in 2009. Application of the negative binomial model has indicated that the total recreational value of the tidal flat is approximately 11.2 billion Korean won (KRW) per year. The annual benefits of improving the water quality by introducing sewage-treatment plants are estimated as KRW 13.4 billion, while the costs of constructing and operating the plants account for less than 3% of the benefits. There is a strong economic justification for investing in the plants to improve the water quality. These findings are useful for policymakers to positively consider public spending in the tidal flat conservation.