(HARRISBURG, PA)—The Chesapeake Bay Foundation issued the following statement from Pennsylvania Executive Director Harry Campbell applauding the state Senate’s passage of Senate Bill 792, which sets lawn fertilizer application rates and requires certain registrations, licenses, and inspection fees. Senate Bill 792 restrictions do not apply to fertilizers for agricultural purposes.
Mr. Campbell said:
"Thanks to Senator Richard Alloway (R-33) for sponsoring Senate Bill 792, and to the Senate for passing it, there will be less fertilizer and its nitrogen and phosphorus entering and damaging our waterways.
"When it comes to lawn fertilizer, more is not better. Not only can excess fertilizer be a waste of money, it can run off into nearby storm drains and streams, even the groundwater, where it causes algal blooms and other damage to water quality.
"Senate Bill 792 will help to ensure lawns, golf courses, athletic fields, and parks receive fertilizer applications necessary for plant growth without causing damage to Pennsylvania’s rivers and streams.
"Public education for homeowners and others on the proper use, application, handling, and storage of fertilizers is another important aspect of Senate Bill 792.
"For many years, Pennsylvania farmers have been required to manage the amount of fertilizer they apply to their fields. This bill helps to ensure that fertilizer on lawns and other non-agricultural landscapes is applied in a balanced way. When Senate Bill 792 reaches the state House, we urge Representatives to follow the Senate’s lead and pass it."
