Starting June 30, residents of Indian River, Martin, and St. Lucie counties must stop applying fertilizers containing phosphorus or nitrogen to their lawns and landscaping. The restriction marks an effort to address environmental concerns during Florida's rainy season.
Jordan Skaggs, with Environmental Resources in St. Lucie County, explained that the ban targets nutrient-rich runoff that flows into local waterways during heavy rainfall. This runoff can trigger algae blooms in sensitive ecosystems like the Indian River Lagoon and St. Lucie River. The excessive growth of algae disrupts the natural balance of these waterways and their wildlife populations. "It can shade out beneficial plants to fish and wildlife," Skaggs said. In some cases, the algae blooms become particularly dangerous. "At certain densities, harmful algae blooms can release toxins that can affect human health, wildlife health and overall ecosystem health."
For residents looking to maintain their landscapes during the ban period, composting offers a practical alternative. Grantly Ricketts, director of the University of Florida's Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences St. Lucie County Extension, recommends composting as an effective way to provide nutrients to gardens and landscaping without relying on commercial fertilizers. According to Ricketts, "It can be like a small trash can. That is the easiest and most practical way or means to add nutrients to your landscape." This approach allows homeowners to recycle organic waste while naturally enriching their soil.
The ban applies across three counties and represents a regional commitment to protecting Florida's waterways from the effects of nutrient pollution. Residents should plan ahead before the June 30 deadline to transition their lawn care practices and explore composting solutions for their gardening needs.