Wildlife and healthy ecosystems have value in their own right — and when we protect them, that value can also support local communities and economies. New research from Oregon Department of Fish & Wildlife shows that non-extractive activities like research, management, and wildlife watching generated nearly $1 million in income and 20 jobs from 2022 to 2024 at Redfish Rocks Marine Reserve on Oregon’s south coast. That’s not a side benefit. It’s a reminder that protecting ecosystems can drive eco