How to choose? A bioeconomic model for optimizing river barrier mitigation actions

Abstract River infrastructure can cause adverse impacts on fish populations, which, in turn, compromises the ability of river ecosystems to provide a range ecosystem services. In this paper, we present methodological approach assess potential economics costs and benefits connectivity enhancement achieved through removal mitigation dispersal barriers. Our combines results stated preference study for nonuse values rivers statistical models population responses barrier actions within an integrated bioeconomic optimization framework. We demonstrate utility our methodology using case Wey catchment southeast England, which contains over 650 artificial reveal presence benefit-cost trade-offs form basis policy development. particular, find that exceed all levels investment considered (£2.5 53.4 M). Furthermore, from economic efficiency standpoint, total budget approximately £22.5M allocated would maximize net societal derived anticipated increases species richness abundance.