River Economy

River Economy

We Create Lakes that Create Opportunities

The Alabama, Coosa, and Tallapoosa rivers—and the improvements added to the channel over the years—provide an economic boon to their communities and to the state as a whole.

For example, dams along these waterways contribute immensely to our shared economy through hydroelectric power generation. The reservoirs created by these dams also generate quite a bit of returns. The lakes attract boaters, skiers, and fishers of bass and crappie. Local, state, regional, and national fishing tournaments reel in revenue and valuable exposure.

We Benefit Our Economy and Ecology

Recreational opportunities bolster commercial economies. Local businesses and industries grow, including home and resort construction, boat dock companies and shoreline landscapers. Cities and towns downstream benefit as well. The dams act as a buffer against economic loss that would result from rain-induced flood damage.

The mutually rewarding relationship between the river economy and ecology is demonstrated by the 2014 Weiss Dam project. Water flow was restored to the original 20-mile Coosa River bed, revitalizing habitat for endangered aquatic animals while providing new waters for outdoor adventurers to float their canoes and kayaks.

This information is adapted from the Alabama Power Company Shorelines website.

 

Economic Development Organizations