Analyzing the economics of tamarisk in the Pecos, Rio Grande, and Colorado River Watersheds

Abstract

The potential economic effects of tamarisk (saltcedar), and the costs and benefits associated with controlling tamarisk infestations are being evaluated on the Pecos, Rio Grande, and Colorado River watersheds. Resource impacts analyzed include water, wildlife habitat, and fire risk. The extent of existing infestations will be quantified and projected over the next 30 years under the following four scenarios: 1. No action (status quo); 2. Containment; 3. Maximum control in 20 years; 4. Maximum control in 30 years. The economic costs and benefits associated with each alternative scenario will be estimated, and a sensitivity analysis will be conducted to determine which variables have the most impact on the results of the economic analysis.

Parent Publication

• Monitoring Science and Technology Symposium: Unifying Knowledge for Sustainability in the Western Hemisphere

Citation

Lewis, Joseph W.; Basala, Allen; Zavaleta, Erika; Parker, Douglas L.; Taylor, John; Horner, Mark; Dionigi, Christopher; Carlson, Timothy; Spiller, Samuel; Nibling, Frederick. 2006. Analyzing the economics of tamarisk in the Pecos, Rio Grande, and Colorado River Watersheds. In: Aguirre-Bravo, C.; Pellicane, Patrick J.; Burns, Denver P.; and Draggan, Sidney, Eds. 2006. Monitoring Science and Technology Symposium: Unifying Knowledge for Sustainability in the Western Hemisphere Proceedings RMRS-P-42CD. Fort Collins, CO: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Research Station. p. 161-163