Evaluation of Ecosystem Services, Carson Valley Watershed

Client: Carson Water Subconservancy

Location: Nevada

Summary: Cardno ENTRIX was hired by the Carson Water Subconservancy to evaluate ecosystem service values in the natural floodplain area of the Carson Valley watershed. The study will be used to potentially develop a program which would provide payment or other incentives to landowners in the watershed in return for not developing the floodplain, and continuing to allow winter time inundation to occur as a flood control mechanism. The study will examine the economic value of ecosystem services provided by the floodplain in its current state as compared to a developed floodplain state. The economic value will include both the flood control benefits from avoided damages as well as wildlife habitat values.