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Over the River could have ramifications to the landscape, animal habitats and the communities surrounding the river. Organizations against the project, such as Rags Over the Arkansas River, predict that the art piece will create problems such as a nightmarish tourist traffic along the canyon highway, permanent defacement of the riverbanks and increased litter and human waste in the canyon. In addition, animals such as Bighorn Sheep, elk and deer won’t have access to the river for water, and bald and golden eagles won’t be able to fish or hunt along the river. The regular commercial and recreational industries that travel the canyon daily will suffer from the crowds coming to see Over the River.
However, Christo is stressing the point that his work is temporary – it is not a railroad or highway with permanent effects on the river. After the two week display, the materials will be removed and recycled. Christo also contends that there are many benefits for the area's economy. People pouring in to see the river will be staying at nearby hotels and utilizing the area's businesses, and local workers will be used to build the piece. People will be able to view Over the River from above on U.S. 50, and from below by rafting underneath the fabric. Also, the entire project, from obtaining permits to the construction and disassembly, is being funded by the artist, with a total upwards of $51 million. His large-scale art pieces are free to view and are not for sale.
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