LETTER: Proposed Jefferson County ban on lawn fertilizers containing phosphorus

Mr. Mark Watkins, Director
Jefferson County Land & Water Conservation Department
320 S. Main Street
Jefferson, WI 53549-1799

Subject: Proposed Jefferson County ban on lawn fertilizers containing phosphorus

Dear Mr. Watkins and Land & Water Conservation Committee Members:

The Lake Ripley Management District and undersigned organizations request consideration of a county ordinance provision restricting the sale and use of phosphorus-containing lawn fertilizers (with an exemption on fertilizers used for agricultural purposes). We believe this measure would be largely supported by the public, and would serve as an effective tool for helping safeguard the health and quality of our county waterways.

As you know, many of our local lakes and rivers already suffer significantly from the effects of excessive phosphorus loadings. Others remain threatened due to a high sensitivity to additional inputs. Consequently, unsightly algae scums, murky water and weed-choked recreational areas are becoming increasingly prevalent. According to the Minnesota DNR, one pound of phosphorus in runoff can produce up to 500 pounds of aquatic plant or algae growth! These impairments add a tremendous and ongoing cost burden to our local economy, namely in the form of reduced property values, lost tourism revenues and the high expense of rehabilitation programs. Since phosphorus loading is shown to be one of the main drivers of such conditions, taking steps to curb its importation and overuse should be a priority.

Fortunately, with recently enacted bans in neighboring Dane County and the state of Minnesota, much of the foundation has been laid. Our proposal is to apply these successful models to help address similar water quality concerns faced right here in Jefferson County. It is estimated that 14,545 lake acres and 440 stream miles scattered throughout the county would stand to benefit. Furthermore, lawn soil tests have shown that our soils are predominantly phosphorus rich, suggesting lawn health would not be negatively affected. For details, including related expert testimony, visit http://www.danewaters.com/management/phosphorus.aspx,
or call us so we can forward hardcopy information.

Thank you for your consideration. If you have questions, please do not hesitate to contact the Lake Ripley Management District office at (608) 423-4537. We, along with the other signatories of this letter, would also be happy to convene a meeting at your convenience should you wish to discuss this matter further.

Sincerely,

Lake Ripley Management District Board