Point/Nonpoint Source Water Quality Trading Program for New Jersey

Abstract

Water quality trading may play a significant role in obtaining cost-effective reductions that will assist New Jersey to successfully meet its goals to improve and preserve water quality. Although trading may be appropriate for many pollutants such as nitrogen and total suspended solids, an immediate need in New Jersey is phosphorus. Benefits of trading include cost savings, incentive to reduce pollution, incentive for technological innovation, and an emphasis on water quality outcomes. A methodology has been developed by the Rutgers Cooperative Extension Water Resources Program to identify potential water quality trading opportunities within a watershed.