Question: What is the valuation process for submerged lands, aquatic resources and ecosystem services?

Answer: Valuation of submerged lands, aquatic resources and ecosystem services may be determined through appraisals, socioeconomic analyses, policy guidelines, and negotiations.

Marine Conservation Agreements (MCAs) usually involve an exchange of interests or services that are valuable in some way. The articulation and quantification of these values can be difficult. The methods used to determine values of submerged lands, aquatic resources and ecosystem services vary widely and are largely situationally-dependent as several variables can be involved in any given MCA project. The type of acquisition or agreement, the type of land, resource, or service, the degree of exclusivity, the governing policy framework, and the sophistication of markets can all change how values are determined. A detailed primer on Valuation Techniques is found within Sub-step 1.7 Economic Incentives of the MCA Field Guide.