The Susquehanna River is the largest tributary of the Chesapeake Bay. Reducing nutrient pollution flowing from the river is a key focus of the Bay Program's work. (Photo by Will Parson/Chesapeake Bay Program with aerial support by Southwings)
It is good to see an honest evaluation of successes and failures of the EPA Bay Program. Going forward, I think that the hardest issues to address will be urban and agricultural non-point sources of N, P, and particulates. I'd like to see new ideas and approaches to address these coming from the Bay Program.
I'm going to suggest two possible approaches to consider, in addition to current efforts. For urban areas, ban the use of inorganic lawn fertilizers and encourage fertilizer suppliers to provide only composted waste (urban and agricultural) in appropriate amounts for those enjoying green and fast-growing lawns requiring frequent mowing. Likewise, for agricultural areas, subsidized cover crops and stream buffers, among other BMPs, could be required for grain production. In addition, animal waste streams could be used to generate natural gas and fertilizer with local or regional digester facilities for which farmers would be paid to contribute their waste streams. The solutions are out there - they just need to be explored, tested, and encouraged or enforced.
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Comments
It is good to see an honest evaluation of successes and failures of the EPA Bay Program. Going forward, I think that the hardest issues to address will be urban and agricultural non-point sources of N, P, and particulates. I'd like to see new ideas and approaches to address these coming from the Bay Program.
I'm going to suggest two possible approaches to consider, in addition to current efforts. For urban areas, ban the use of inorganic lawn fertilizers and encourage fertilizer suppliers to provide only composted waste (urban and agricultural) in appropriate amounts for those enjoying green and fast-growing lawns requiring frequent mowing. Likewise, for agricultural areas, subsidized cover crops and stream buffers, among other BMPs, could be required for grain production. In addition, animal waste streams could be used to generate natural gas and fertilizer with local or regional digester facilities for which farmers would be paid to contribute their waste streams. The solutions are out there - they just need to be explored, tested, and encouraged or enforced.
Thank you!
Your comment has been received. Before it can be published, the comment will be reviewed by our team to ensure it adheres with our rules of engagement.
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