Direct use values of selected vegetation resources in the Okavango delta wetland

A study quantifies the significant economic value of native plant resources in the Okavango Delta, revealing that their direct use value per household (US$1,434 annually) nearly matches average financial income. The net present value of these benefits is estimated at US$101.9 million, underscoring the critical role of vegetation in local livelihoods and quality of life. This finding highlights the need for economic development planners to integrate wetland resource values into infrastructure planning, ensuring sustainable access without adequate mitigation strategies. The research focused on palm leaves, grass, fuelwood, and edible fruits harvested by three villages in 2003, excluding other ecosystem services like fishing or tourism.

Mmopelwa, G., Blignaut, J., & Hassan, R. (2011). Direct use values of selected vegetation resources in the Okavango delta wetland. South African Journal of Economic and Management Sciences, 12(2), 242–255. https://doi.org/10.4102/sajems.v12i2.279