Watershed

The role of watershed management in meeting water resource needs is becoming an increasingly important consideration for public agencies. Protecting upper watersheds preserves flow regimes, source water supply, and water quality. It is widely believed that conservation is less costly than downstream damage or after-the-fact treatment and remediation, but quantitative evidence is sparse. This class will examine case studies where 1) economic benefits of watershed conservation are claimed or expected and 2) municipal and water agencies conduct watershed protection as a principal or integral part of an overall water supply strategy, including as an alternative to more costly treatment options.

This document was created based on material assembled by Stephanie Peck during a the Fall 2005 for the Geo298 course, and led by Professor Jim Quinn.

The follow pages are case studies and related articles, mainly focusing on ecosystem services, but other watershed management topics are also covered.

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