Wildlife crop damage valuation and conservation: conflicting perception by local farmers in the Luangwa Valley, eastern Zambia

• DOI: 10.5897/ijbc12.026
• Publication Date: 2013-11-30
• Authors: Vincent R. Nyirenda; Willem J. Myburgh; Brian K. Reilly; rew I. Phiri; Harry Chabwela
• Keywords: Opportunity cost; Human–wildlife conflict; Contingent valuation

Wildlife conservation in Luangwa Valley depends on perception by local communities, and is affected wildlife crop raiding. Perception of farmers were elucidated between 2006/7 2008/9 farming seasons. Data collection was done using prescribed forms semi-structured questionnaires trained field assistants. The case study findings confirm that firstly, perceived actual losses differed 49.49 7.78% for mono-specific stands of maize cotton, respectively. Secondly, opportunity costs incurred higher than direct costs. Most (79.83%, n = 95) associated damage with loss sleep time for other chores, when providing protection. Thirdly, objectives farmers’ needs aspirations antithetical. Majority (82.59%, 204) expanded or segregated fields, thereby degrading habitats. Ensuing negative posed high risks to Valley. Incentivising performance payments are recommended, increase their tolerance levels while incurring living wildlife. Implementation improved environmental education awareness creation, coupled capacity building through appropriate trainings facilitated infrastructure resolving human-wildlife conflicts critical.

Key words: Wildlife raiding, contingent valuation, costs, conservation,