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Abstract
This study applies a production function approach to value the groundwater recharge function of the Hadejia-Nguru wetlands
in northern Nigeria. The groundwater recharge function supports dry season agricultural production which is dependent on
groundwater abstraction for irrigation. Using survey data this paper first carries out an economic valuation of agricultural
production, per hectare of irrigated land. We then value the recharge function as an environmental input into the dry season
agricultural production and derive appropriate welfare change measures. Welfare change is calculated using the estimated
production functions and hypothetical changes in groundwater recharge and hence, groundwater levels. By focusing on
agricultural production dependent solely on groundwater resources from the shallow aquifer, this study establishes that the
groundwater recharge function of the wetlands is of significant importance for the floodplain. © 2000 Elsevier Science B.V.
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