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Assessing Resilience Using Socio-Ecological Production Landscapes and Seascapes (SEPLS) Model: The Case of Candaba Wetlands, Philippines
Dissertation Abstract:
Candaba Wetlands is a key biodiversity area in the Philippines and a globally important ecosystem for waterfowls in the East Asian-Australasian Flyway (EAAF). The wetland serves as a production landscape providing livelihood to the communities. This study aimed to assess the resilience of Candaba Wetlands' to different key drivers of change using the Socio-Ecological Production Landscape and Seascape (SEPLS) model. The study is composed of four parts (a) ecosystem profile, (b) land use/land cover change analysis, (c) resilience assessment, and (d) scenario development. Based on the in-situ water quality analysis using a multiparameter probe and soil tests, the wetland water was found hypoxic and the soil had high concentration of phosphorus and potassium. In terms of biodiversity, various species of birds, amphibians, fish, and macrophytes were found in the area. The distribution of species was mainly due to feeding and foraging behaviors and habitat heterogeneity. The land use/land cover change analysis revealed a shift in land use and land cover from 1997 to 2016. It is characterized by a reduction in water body and an increase in built-up areas and bare soil. Through surveys and workshops with community members and local government officials, respectively, the Candaba Wetlands scored moderate to high socio-ecological resilience, with agricultural biodiversity, knowledge, learning and innovation, and social equity and infrastructure contributing significantly. In the scenario development, the farmers envisioned better agricultural production, provision of support from the government, enhanced biodiversity, and tourism in Candaba Wetlands. Though community-based management was preferred by farmers, the conservation and management of Candaba Wetlands would require a broader base of stakeholders including private landowners, government agencies, academic institutions, and civil society organizations. The SEPLS model can be a useful tool in the management and development of other important socio-ecological landscapes as it highlights the value of local knowledge, techniques, rules, and norms.