The Economic Value of Water Resources in Colorado’s San Luis Valley

Whether flowing through the watershed, drawn from the Rio Grande and its many local tributaries, or pumped from the aquifers that underlie the Valley floor, water resources in the San Luis Valley of Colorado contribute significantly to economic activity in the six counties that make up the Valley community. They also play a pivotal role in supporting local ecosystems. Capturing the value of water as it is used in homes, businesses, and for environmental purposes can add important information to conversations about the future of the Valley and its water resources

Water resources in the San Luis Valley support a wide range of social, financial, and environmental benefits. This report quantifies the value of water in this region across a multitude of its uses. The values, summarized within, highlight the diversity of uses and the benefits accrued to individuals, communities, and across the local economy. This report aims to underscore the value of water across all sectors to promote and foster continued collaboration in the protection of water resources. In doing so, the Valley can invest in a future where all water-dependent sectors and beings can thrive.