On the valuation of ecosystem services in Muránska Planina National Park (Slovakia). eco.mont (Journal on Protected Mountain Areas Research)|eco.mont Vol. 7 No. 2 7 2|

The quantification and economic valuation of ecosystem services is vital to ascertain the social and economic benefits of establishing and managing protected areas. In Central Europe a wide range of studies has emphasized the significant contribution of protected areas to the conservation of biodiversity. This paper provides further evidence on the significance of (non-market) ecosystem services in Muránska Planina National Park (NP), Slovakia, which can be valued at about EUR 10 million per year. However, the ecosystem services of the park provided in terms of forestry, agriculture and tourism are smaller than in other Slovak NPs. In particular, recreation benefits are smaller because of a lower number of tourists (30 000 per year) and a lower average length of stay (2.29 days). The study nevertheless underlines the important ecosystem services that Muránska Planina NP provides for the regional and national economy, and how it contributes significantly to human well-being