The closer a residential property is to a non-degraded natural area or open space, the higher the property value. New businesses are created to service natural area-related activities, providing local employment and entrepreneurial opportunities. Resource management and maintenance expenditures Expenditures by private citizens, businesses, and government on natural resource management and maintenance creates an opportunity for new local and regional business and employment opportunities. Businesses look to the quality of life and character of a community or region when making location decisions. Resource protection helps preserve a community's character and provides recreational opportunities which increase the local and regional quality of life.
Most businesses also require high-quality water and wastewater services.
Reduction of public costs Natural areas and open spaces which protect flood plains and wetlands help reduce public costs by protecting against damage from flooding and preserving water quality. Public resource protection efforts that produce economic benefits for landowners can provide an incentive for additional private conservation measures.