Draft framework for assessing societal benefits of aquatic ecosystems unveiled

SCCWRP and its partners have unveiled a prototype scientific framework intended to help managers rapidly assess the societal benefits provided by aquatic ecosystems in various conditions, otherwise known as ecosystem services.

The ecosystem services framework, presented at a Society of Wetland Scientists conference in June, is intended to be used to evaluate the health of streams and other aquatic resources through the lens of the human services they provide, including recreation, hazard reduction, water supply and cultural uses.

Managers currently lack such a rapid evaluation framework; indeed, it has long been assumed without evidence that protecting or restoring the ecological benefits of aquatic ecosystems would also affect societal benefits.

The ecosystem services framework is intended to be customizable for specific state and regional needs. It was developed using dozens of case studies from California, Montana and Florida; from California alone, 51 streams and rivers were included.

Additional testing and refinement will continue through early 2027, with publication of the framework expected in spring 2027.