Approaching this initiative through a cooperative process is critical to addressing long-term habitat needs of Alabama’s imperiled species. However, equally as important, the SHU process will benefit the state by directing limited dollars and research efforts to targeted restoration efforts inside priority watersheds. This watershed and community-based approach improves water resource conditions for Alabama’s communities and rare species simultaneously. If successful, substantial long-term cost savings are anticipated by improving water supply, water quality, and decreasing the regulatory burden that conservation can impose.
