WATERSHED MODELING FOR WATER QUALITY TRADING
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Abstract
Water quality trading has been proposed as a potential solution for addressing water quality impairments in a cost effective manner. Determining if a trading program is feasible requires key information about both point and nonpoint loads and the amount of each load reaching a location of interest, or delivery ratio. While point source loading estimates are relatively simple to determine, nonpoint source loads are much more difficult. Additionally, delivery ratios, which are primarily dependent on instream processes and withdrawals, can be difficult to estimate. In this paper, a modeling framework is proposed for developing seasonal farm/field loads and the associated delivery ratios required to support a water quality trading program. Our results show this approach to be an objective and scientifically based foundation for the development of water quality trading programs that include nonpoint sources of pollution.