| dc.description.abstract | The study of the benefits (damages averted) attributable to the El Morillo Drain
encompasses U.S. municipalities, industry, and agriculture. It is conservatively estimated
that the annual direct benefits to residents of South Texas ranges between $16.3 and
$30.3 million. This does not include effects on landscapes, industry that is dependant on
low saline water, and water treatment plants. Accounting for the costs to agriculture from
crop losses of about $26.7 million, the total annual impact of the El Morillo Drain for
South Texas is between $43 and $57 million. Such economic impact assessments are
indicative that maintenance of the Drain is a highly-beneficial activity, leaving little
doubt that it is essential that the drain be updated, maintained, and operated. Certainly as
South Texas population increases and demand for high quality water increases, the value
of the El Morillo Drain will increase. | en |
