Author: Crawford, Thomas J.

Source: Proceedings of the Water Environment Federation, Residuals and Biosolids 2011 , pp. 1057-1067(11)

Publisher: Water Environment Federation

Abstract:

Eutrophication rouses anger which energizes city folks. Clean water is precious.

Sewerage professionals are clean water advocates. After 40 years of technology forcing improvements, they are screaming at the agriculture industry, the N-P-K Elephant in the Room.

Within this context, a grassroots movement to abate nutrient enrichment from nonpoint sources has focused on eliminating one nonessential phosphorus use - manicured Urban Turf. AAPFCO #63, 179. The crusade against eutrophication is similar to other American reform movements that have sought to end a social evil. Sewerage professionals embrace holistic watershed nutrient abatement and green infrastructure to reduce stormwater runoff.

The trend is outlawing the display, sale and use of registered fertilizer products that contain any phosphorus. The “P-Free Movement“ appeals to individuals to be socially responsible when decorating out-of-doors property within their control and custody.

An unintended consequence of criminalizing Urban Turf phosphorus use is outlawing lawn and garden products derived from organics, specifically pelletized biosolids or fertilizer blends containing biosolids.

Lawmakers must carve out exemptions from P-Free laws for organics and biosolids to promote environmental sustainability, Low Input Lawn Care (LILaC), and best urban nutrient runoff reduction practices. Reducing fertilizer pollution is an enormous bit of unfinished business.

Keywords: P-Free Movement; Urban Turf; P Phytoavailability; Baggage on the Train; Biosolids Exemption

Document Type: Research article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.2175/193864711802862978

Publication date: 2011-01-01

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