Is Lawn Fertilizer Bad for Lake Champlain?

Fertilizer contains phosphorus, and when it makes its way to the lake, it can lead to algae blooms, which are harmful to aquatic life, and make the water unappealing for recreational use.

PROBLEM:

Phosphorus (P) is a nutrient commonly found in lawn fertilizer. Inappropriate use and/or overuse of fertilizers can contribute to algae blooms in Lake Champlain.

SOLUTION:

Only fertilize lawns with phosphorus-free fertilizers.  Research conducted by the University of Vermont concluded that 75% of Chittenden County lawns had enough P and only needed nitrogen (N).  Sweep up fertilizer from sidewalks and driveways so that it does not wash into the stormwater drainage system and get discharged directly to surface waters.  For more information on fertilizer use, visit www.lawntolake.org