ECL/GEO 298 Watershed Management Course, Fall 2005

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.