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Lee County Fertilizer Ordinance No. 08-08. Why is there an ordinance?. Protect the quality of our coastal waters Prevent excess nutrients from entering waterways through drainage and runoff. Nitrogen and/or Phosphorous Fertilization.
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Lee County Fertilizer Ordinance No. 08-08
Why is there an ordinance? • Protect the quality of our coastal waters • Prevent excess nutrients from entering waterways through drainage and runoff
Nitrogen and/or Phosphorous Fertilization Fertilizer spread in excess or onto paved areas near lawn Nutrients promote growth of invasive weeds and algae Excess nutrients washed away into storm drains
A Regulator’s Perspective • There is significant water quality and observational data indicating excess nutrients in watershed are causing water quality decline in Lee County for the last several years, due to many factors. • Federal & State regulatory pressure to improve WQ. • BOCC recognized need to take steps using a multifaceted approach. • Ordinance vetted through public hearing process • DNR partnered with the IFAS and the Tax Collector to educate and register professionals. • Existing staff resources have been allocated in DNR to conduct compliance and enforcement activities. DNR developed database to track activities.
What does the ordinance do? • Regulates landscape maintenance practices • Sets rules for using fertilizers that contain Nitrogen or Phosphorous • Requires registration and training of professional and institutional landscapers
Who is covered by the ordinance? PERSONAL PROFESSIONAL
Professional Certification • Commercial landscapers required to take six-hour class for certification
Requirements Fertilizers containing Nitrogen and Phosphorous prohibited during rainy season, restricted during rest of the year N/P N/P N/P N/P
Requirements Fertilizers containing Nitrogen and Phosphorous prohibited during rainy season, restricted during rest of the year N/P N/P N/P N/P
Requirements 10 ft Fertilizer use is also prohibited within 10 feet of a water body, seawall or wetland
Requirements Deflectors required on fertilizer spreaders
Requirements Blow or sweep excess fertilizer back onto lawn
Alternatives to Turf Lawns • Can save you time, energy and money • Classes offered by local extension service (239) 533-4327