INDIAN RIVER COUNTY — Local waters are experiencing a decline in water quality due to the excess nitrogen and phosphorus.
The decline has prompted concern about marine life, overall health of the waterways and the economy.
Fertilizer is one nutrient that can be controlled with County residents’ help.
The use of fertilizers in Indian River County is restricted in accordance with the County’s Code of Ordinances, N. 2013-012.
From June 1 through Sept. 30 of each year, the use of fertilizer containing nitrogen or phosphorus is prohibited.
From Oct. 1 through May 31 of each year, all lawn and landscape fertilizers must have zero phosphorus, unless a state-certified laboratory soil test confirms a deficiency in the soil underlying the turf or landscape plant in question.
From Oct. 1 through May 31, all lawn and landscape fertilizers must contain a minimum of 50% slow release nitrogen (SRN).
For questions on how to calculate the percentage of slow release nitrogen, or other related topics, contact the County Fertilizer Enforcement Officer, Alexis Paralta, at (772) 226-1565.
Violation of this ordinance can result in fines up to $500.