A model-based approach for designing cost-effective compensation payments for conservation of endangered species in real landscapes

An approach is presented which integrates an economic and an ecological model for designing cost-effective compensation payments for conservation of endangered species in real landscapes. The approach is used to develop a cost-effective payment scheme for conservation of an endangered butterfly species (Maculinea teleius) protected by the EU Habitats Directive in the region of Landau, Germany. The results of the case study are used to analyse the effect of metapopulation dynamics on the cost-effectiveness of payment schemes, to compare spatially homogeneous and heterogeneous payments, and to evaluate existing conservation policies.