The Economic Impact of Arizona's Rivers, Lakes, and Streams: How water-based outdoor recreation contributes to state and local economies

Audubon Arizona commissioned a report to evaluate the economic contributions of the water in Arizona’s rivers, lakes, and streams. In order to conserve and protect the waterways we care about, Audubon wanted to make the economic case for why their demise—due to drought, diversions, and a changing climate—would be devastating for Arizona. Outdoor recreation along Arizona’s waterways—think fishing, wildlife watching, picnicking, camping, and hiking—is a thriving industry, annually generating $13.5 billion in economic output and supporting 114,000 jobs statewide.

Haley Paul is the Policy Manager for Audubon Arizona, the state office of the National Audubon Society. In this role, Haley helps Audubon advance sustainable water policies that benefit both people and birds. Haley’s MS in Sustainability is from ASU, where she analyzed the Groundwater Management Act. Her first job right after graduate school was for UA. Prior to coming to Audubon Haley was the Water Resources Coordinator for the Town of Gilbert.