Bill > H994

This bill addresses fertilizer regulations specifically for the town of Orleans, Massachusetts, based on environmental concerns about water quality. The bill argues that nitrogen and phosphorus in fertilizers can negatively impact fresh and salt waters by promoting excessive algae growth, which threatens public health by degrading water used for drinking, shell fishing, and recreation. Recognizing the town's unique sandy soil conditions that make nutrients quickly leach into water systems, the bill prohibits the application of fertilizers containing nitrogen and phosphorus, with two key exceptions: commercial agricultural use and residential use of certified organic fertilizers with low nitrogen and phosphorus levels that meet USDA National Organic Program standards. The legislation overrides any existing state laws that might otherwise regulate fertilizer application, creating a specific local ordinance for Orleans. The bill aims to help the town comply with Total Maximum Daily Loads (TMDL) standards set by Massachusetts for nitrogen and phosphorus in water bodies, and will take effect immediately upon passage.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H994