Tunca, Sezgin University of Helsinki - Department of Economics and Management, Finland , Miran, Bülent Ege University - Department of Agricultural Economics, Turkey , Ünal, Vahdet Ege University - Department of Fishery and Fish Processing Technology, Turkey

Non-market economic value of artificial reefs in Edremit Bay (Eastern Mediterranean, Turkey)

14578

Although the history of artificial reef (AR) deployments in Turkey does not extend far back, there has been a considerable increase in the number of ARs. First aim of this study was to indicate the socioeconomic characteristics of AR stakeholders, commercial fishermen, recreational fishermen and local residents that are affected by ARs in Altınoluk under the Turkish National Artificial Reef Project. The AR relations of the interest groups were measured via reef-related activities, such as commercial fishing, recreational fishing and diving. Mainly, the number of visits to the AR site made by these groups was taken into account. Lastly, the non-market economic value of ARs from the residents was calculated as 3,594,606 via contingent valuation method. Variables affecting willingness-to-pay and the amounts of individual willingness to pay were also assessed via probit model. The results of the present study have vital importance for decision-making process of the AR deployment.

97

Artificial reefs , stakeholders , contingent valuation , Altınoluk

Ege Journal Of Fisheries an‎d Aquatic Sciences

107