Prompt Earlier material in AEC 351 on both nonrenewable and renewable resource economics did not always consider sources of value in natural systems that could be classified as ecosystem services

An ecosystem service that could be given a monetary value is flood control by wetland areas.  Given the numerous wetland rehabilitation projects that have been and are being undertaken around the world, there is excellent opportunity to conduct studies and economic evaluations of downstream communities impacted by flooding pre and post wetland rehabilitation.  We know that reconnection with the floodplain in conjunction with riparian and wetland health can help to distribute the stream laterally at peak flow times.  When large precipitation events or high flow events occur, this can help mitigate downstream flooding by reducing both speed and volume.  While there could be potential for historic economic valuation of this when looking at flooding pre and post dam/levy introduction or pre and post channel straightening, we can get a better indication with new work being done in real time.