Lower Cape May meadows ecological restoration: Analysis of economic and social benefits
This report assesses the economic and social benefits of the Lower Cape May Meadows ecological restoration in Cape May, New Jersey. The 456‑acre project included wetland restoration, dune construction, and beach replenishment. The study evaluates avoided flood damages, ecotourism impacts—particularly birding—and the value of ecosystem services such as recreation, water quality, and conservation benefits.
Subject Tags
- Coastal
- Habitat restoration
- Climate resilience
Abstract
The goal of this study was to analyze the economic and social benefits of the restoration of Lower Cape May Meadows (LCMM) ecosystem, which includes the South Cape May Meadows Preserve and the Cape May Point State Park. We analyzed the 456-acre ecological restoration of LCMM, which was completed in 2007. The project was comprised of a freshwater wetland restoration, construction of a sand dune, and two miles of beach replenishment. The research is divided into two separate components. First, the impact of restoration, answers the questions: Did restoration project increase economic and social benefits to the surrounding communities? If so, what are the total flood damage costs that were avoided as a result of the project, aggregated over the community of Cape May Point and into the future? In addition, what are the regional economic impacts from ecotourism with an emphasis on birding at LCMM? Second, the report assesses the economic value associated with additional ecosystem service benefits from the project, presenting the range in values for services such as beach recreation, water quality and the satisfaction individuals place on knowing coastal habitat and wildlife is protected.
Citation
Schuster, E. (2014). Lower Cape May Meadows ecological restoration: Analysis of economic and social benefits. Nature Conservancy.
TNC Authors
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Elizabeth Schuster
Environmental Economist
The Nature Conservancy, New Jersey Chapter
Email: eschuster@tnc.org