Bill > S3101

This bill prohibits the application of fertilizer containing nitrogen or phosphorus in the town of Nantucket, except for farming purposes. The bill cites scientific evidence that these nutrients in excessive amounts negatively affect the town's water bodies, leading to undesirable algae and plant growth that degrade water quality for drinking, shellfish, and recreational use. The bill aims to help Nantucket achieve compliance with state-prescribed Total Maximum Daily Loads (TMDLs) for nitrogen and phosphorus in its waters. The prohibition applies despite any general or special laws that may grant the Department of Agriculture exclusive authority over fertilizer regulation elsewhere in the Commonwealth.