Common fertilizers used in lawn care are key contributors to harmful algae blooms
BARNSTABLE – Barnstable is offering residents guidance and advice on protecting local water from common residential contaminants following the release of Chapter 78, its Fertilizer Nitrogen and Phosphorous Control Ordinance.
The ordinance was crafted to reduce excess nutrient runoff associated with common lawn treatments and fertilizers, as the safety of the Cape’s drinking water and its impacts on public health continue to come under scrutiny.
Residents are advised not to use fertilizer before or during heavy rain to avoid stormwater runoff, to forgo fertilizing during the cold months, and to avoid phosphorous unless needed.
Residents are urged to limit or ditch nitrogen use and maintain a distance of 100 feet or more from wells and waterbodies when fertilizing.
Additionally, residents can pursue natural options for home lawn design such as clover and native grasses – which are more resilient to regional weather conditions including drought and require less water and fertilizer – and to mow high and leave grass clippings where they lie as they act as natural fertilizers.
To view the full ordinance, click here.
About Matthew Tomlinson
