Nitrogen and phosphorus are two major components to harmful algal blooms, which increased in Lake Erie compared to last year. Now the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is reviewing a new plan from the state EPA to fight these elements.
Ohio’s revamped strategy to address nutrient issues in the state’s waterways includes a more robust analysis, according to Chris Abbruzzese, the agency’s spokesperson. He explains that the old system used a one-size-fits all number while the new game plan would implement more evidence-based criteria in determining the health and quality of a stream or river.
Abbruzzese says Ohio was one of the first states to submit a new strategy to the federal EPA.
“Well I don’t think it’s any surprise to anyone that we’re having some nutrient impairment issues in our waterways," Abbruzzesse said, "But the state has really taken a very proactive approach to address these nutrient issues.”
The Senate is also deliberating a bill that to create fertilizer management standards for agriculture.