Melaleuca Distribution
Socioeconomic
Summary
Demonstration
Evaluation- Socioeconomic
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Project Summary
This four-year project will evaluate the socio-economic effects
of Melaleuca reduction in south Florida, the economics of specific Melaleuca
management practices, and the economic and sociological influences affecting
adoption of the integrated management practices promoted by the areawide
project. The approach for achieving those objectives will include a cost-benefit
analysis of Melaleuca control strategies will be based on data collected
from project demonstration sites and will consider both market and non-market
values associated with each type of treatment demonstrated. Market based
benefits associated with control of Melaleuca infestations will be evaluated
through interviews with selected public and private land managers. The project
team will also review the ecological research literature and interview biologists
for their expert opinions regarding the connections between improved wetland
function and impacts on downstream water quality. Evaluation of public non-market
benefits of vegetation control will be developed through focus groups and
general public surveys regarding their willingness-to-pay for environmental
enhancements. The adoption of recommended control strategies for Melaleuca
will be addressed by surveying land owners and managers, both public and
private. The regional economic impact analysis will consider changes in
economic values resulting from the most likely scenario for reduction in
invasive plant coverage.
