February 1, 2008--Profit flows from healthy rivers (Pagosa Daily Post)

According to new information released by The Environmental Defense Fund, a national conservation organization, there is a financial incentive to changing how Colorado handles its water.  Citing a direct relationship between healthy rivers and recreational spending, experts believe slight increases in water flows would generate $4.4 million in income and an additional 340 jobs statewide related to increases in rafting and fishing industries. "Offering ranchers, farmers, and cities more freedom to leave their water in local rivers and streams benefits our quality of life, environment, and the Colorado economy," said Dan Grossman, Rocky Mountain Regional Director and Senior Attorney with The Environmental Defense Fund.  "Essentially, water in the river is money in the bank."

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