Identification and Evaluation of Cultural Ecosystem Service Resources in the Territory of the Local Action Group Lednice–Valtice Area

Abstract

The article focuses on the identification and mapping of cultural ecosystem service (CES) resources in the territory of the Local Action Group Lednice–Valtice Area (LAG LVA). The Consolidated Layer of Ecosystems (CLE) was used for mapping, and changes in the distribution and overall representation of cultural ecosystem service resources across the different CLE versions were monitored. A total of 27 ecosystem categories were identified in the region. Subsequently, the importance of cultural ecosystem services was assessed based on expert estimation. The classes of ecosystem services defined within the Common International Classification of Ecosystem Services (CICES) have been grouped into a total of four groups according to their common characteristics. Then, an expert estimation of all identified ecosystems in terms of their importance as sources of CESs was performed. It showed that ecosystems in the LAG LVA have a high potential to provide CES. As a result of the significant amount of CES resources, it is also an area that attracts a huge number of visitors annually. However, some places are more attractive and well known, causing an influx of tourists. The sustainability and protection of these resources, thus, depends on their appropriate management and integration into strategies and planning.