Evaluation and analysis of water-regulation value of ecosystem in Qinghai area of Qilian Mountain National Park, China

Abstract

Context Water-regulation services significantly affect local social and economic development in the Qinghai area of Qilian Mountain National Park, China, and also affect the role of a ‘solid reservoir’ in China. Aim The value and change trend of water regulation was assessed through the evaluation and prediction of the water-regulation value of ecosystems. Methods InVEST water yield model and SVR model are used to evaluate and predict the water-regulation value of ecosystem in this study. Key results Grassland plays an important role in water regulation, although the area of forestland is not large, its water-regulation monetary value in 2020 accounted for 13.92% of the total evaluation value. From 2010 to 2020, the physical value of water regulation increased by 2.24% and the monetary value increased ~0.97% annually. In 2030, the amount of physical and monetary value of water regulation will be increased. Conclusion Grassland plays an important role in water regulation. It is necessary to strengthen the asset management of water regulation and optimise the ecological resources. Implications The study findings are utilised to enhance monitoring and establish ecological big-data platform, thereby elevating the quality of national park development management and decision-making services.