The U.S. Geological Survey released a report on April 5 that outlines how ecosystem-based restoration projects are providing a boon for local, state and national economies. The study by USGS economists tracked 21 restoration projects coordinated through the Department of the Interior and found that there was a two- to three-fold return in economic activity for every dollar invested in ecosystem projects. For each project, researchers quantified economic impacts through labor income from jobs supported by project expenditures, contributions to Gross Domestic Product, and the total economic output of goods and services from project expenditures.

"Based on case study results, we found that for every $1 million invested in ecosystem restoration, between $2.2 and $3.4 million flow through to the U.S. economy, demonstrating how such investments support jobs and livelihoods, small businesses and rural economies," said USGS economist and lead author Catherine Cullinane Thomas.