ABSTRACT
To manage something it must first be measured. When dealing with options for restoring ecosystems or water bodies, often we want to measure the value of undertaking a certain project. Estimating the value of a restoration project can help us to prioritize projects when budgets are limited. A watershed association may want to determine the costs and benefits of stream restoration or other stream-improving activities. This might be because they want to compare two or more potential projects to determine where to spend their money. It may be because they have been asked by people in the community or policy makers to justify their request for funds to carry out a restoration project. The community may want to know what they are giving up (e.g., new playground) for improved water quality.
