Grade Division and Benchmark Price of Forestlands Using Geospatial Technology: A Case Study of Southeastern China

Abstract

Forestlands not only provide the conditions that support forested environments, but they also generate natural resources and ecosystem services that support human survival and social development. Using benchmark price to evaluate the economic value of forests is fast and efficient, which can function as an important tool for the improvement of forest resources management. However, information remains limited on how to establish a unified and complete benchmark price for forestland resources in China. Therefore, this study aimed to grade the forestlands and formulate the corresponding benchmark price to improve the statistical management efficiency of forestlands resources. We conducted our study in Longquan County, Zhejiang Province, where we implemented a survey and collected data focusing on forest resources planning. We classified forest resources in this area to establish a benchmark price using geographic information system (GIS) spatial analysis technology. Based on the characteristics of the survey data and the local economic and social situation, the correction coefficient of forestland price was formulated, and the economic value of forestlands resource assets was calculated accordingly. Results indicate that: (1) the forestland can be divided into five grades. The number and area of forestland increased firstly and then decreased from Grade I to Grade V. Forestland resources were concentrated in Grade II and Grade III, accounting for 62.0% of the total area. (2) The benchmark price of forestland in Longquan County was 10380, 9493, 8708, 7827 and 6771 Chinese Yuan (CNY)·hm−2 from Grade I to Grade V, respectively. The benchmark price of forestland in different grades could reflect the quality of forestland. (3) The price correction coefficient was formulated to match the benchmark price of forestland according to the forestland particularity and the external embodiment of forestland productivity level, and then, the economic value of forestland resource assets in the study area was calculated to be 22.48 million CNY accordingly. The method used in this study has the advantages of simple operation, high efficiency and a low cost. This study can provide methods for the evaluation and accounting of forestland resources, give technical support for the audit of natural resource assets of government departments, help to prepare the balance sheet of natural resources, and further prompt references for the statistical management of forest resources in similar regions and countries.