VALUASI EKONOMI EKOWISATA HUTAN MERANTI DENGAN PENDEKATAN TRAVEL COST METHOD (TCM) DI DESA SEBELIMBINGAN KECAMATAN PULAU LAUT UTARA KABUPATEN KOTABARU

Abstract

Located in Sebelimbingan Village, North Laut Island District, Kotabaru Regency, Meranti Forest Ecotourism is the subject of this study. The aim of the study was to determine the cost of visiting the forest tourism site and analyze the surplus enjoyed by the site. The methods used in determining the results of the study were Multiple Linear Regression and Individual Travel Cost Method. The study showed that average costs for visitors are Rp 267,760,- per person, which includes round-trip transportation, entrance fees, food/drinks, and animal feed. The total economic value of Kotabaru Regencies Meranti Forest Ecotourism is Rp 807,244,513.92, - per year. With a consumer surplus of 323,415.27 rupiah per visit, the environment and the community both benefit from this large positive impact.