The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced a partnership to implement and coordinate policies that support water quality trading programs for nutrients, sediments, and other pollutants for economic and environmental benefit. Water quality trading allows regulated entities to purchase and use pollutant reduction credits. Proponents argue the program is a cost-effective way to comply with the Clean Water Act while also improving air quality and ecosystems. The USDA and EPA will coordinate and enhance communications and share information with states, agricultural producers, and third-party members to support water quality trading.

Sources: EPA