Promoting biodiversity values of small forest patches in agricultural landscapes: Ecological drivers and social demand.

摘要: Abstract Small forest patches embedded in agricultural (and peri-urban) landscapes Western Europe play a key role for biodiversity conservation with recognized capacity of delivering wide suite ecosystem services. Measures aimed to preserve these should be both socially desirable and ecologically effective. This study presents joint ecologic economic assessment conducted on small Flanders (Belgium) Picardie (N France). In each region, two contrasted types were selected. Open field (OF) Bocage (B) are distinguished by the intensity their usage higher connectivity B landscapes. The social demand enhancing structure diversity as well increasing area at expenses land is estimated through an valuation survey. These results compared outcomes ecological survey where influence structural features associated herbaceous assessed. surveys show contrasting results; tree species richness more important patch, but obtain insignificant willingness pay estimates. Furthermore, although respondents prefer proposed changes take place region they live, we find out that preferences effectiveness do differ between represent different intensities use. Dwellers landscape perceived “degraded” attach value enhancement, suggesting prioritization initiatives area. contrast, analyses prioritizing protection enhancement relatively better-off areas Our calls balance welfare benefits, cost studies consider approaches jointly.