Collaborative Federalism and the Emerging Role of Local Nonprofits in Water Quality Implementation

Abstract

While much has been written about collaborative federalism, the focus of this research has been on collaboration between governmental agencies at the national, state, and local levels. However, a growing body of evidence suggests there is a greater role available for nongovernmental actors in collaborative federalism. This article presents a case in which a local grassroots environmental nonprofit organization plays a critical role in the implementation of Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) requirements in the Chesapeake Bay watershed. We conclude that such collaboration provides local governments with a force multiplier that can enhance both collaborative federalism and policy outcomes.