First Advisor

Luis Ruedas

Date of Award

Summer 8-2025

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Biology and University Honors

Department

Biology

Language

English

Subjects

ecosystem services, natural capital, ecosystem valuation, environmental management, sustainability, conservation

Abstract

Ecosystem services are vital to human welfare and society, but often are overlooked when it comes to planning and setting policy. By neglecting to incorporate the benefits received from natural resources, policy makers may unknowingly be making decisions that harm the long term sustainability and use of these services. To highlight the importance of Oregon's ecosystems, the present study aims to provide a full accounting of the ecosystem services and natural capital of the state. Using data from the Institute for Natural Resources' updated Oregon statewide habitat map, Oregon's ecosystems were matched to biome categories from the Ecosystem Services Valuation Database. Value transfer methodology was used to determine a range of potential values for each ecosystem and its associated services and to provide an estimation of the total value of Oregon's natural capital. Our data resulted in a total median value of $136.1 billion per year for the state of Oregon. Coastal systems, urban green and blue infrastructure, and freshwater systems--such as rivers and lakes--were found to contribute the highest per hectare values; air quality regulation, maintenance of soil fertility, opportunities for recreation and tourism, and moderation of extreme events were found to be the highest value services. The monetary values presented in this study can be used as a starting point for integrating the value of nature into land use and environmental management policy, thereby allowing for a more informed decision making that promotes the long term sustainability of Oregon's natural resources.

Persistent Identifier

https://archives.pdx.edu/ds/psu/44043

Download

Share

COinS