County Executive Falk Statement: Legislature Considers Statewide Phosphorus Ban

January 27, 2009
Joshua Wescott, Office of the County Executive (608) 267-8823 or cell (608) 669-5606
County Executive

Dane County Executive Kathleen Falk issued the following statement regarding a public hearing to be held Wednesday before the Assembly Committee on Natural Resources.  A hearing will be held on legislation similar to a Dane County ordinance that took effect January 1, 2005 - - the first countywide ordinance in Wisconsin that limited the sale of fertilizers containing phosphorus.

(Madison)…“As County Executive of the first county in Wisconsin to pass a ban on unnecessary phosphorus in lawn fertilizer, I commend the state legislature’s attention to this important step we can take to improve the health of our lakes.  A statewide policy like Dane County’s would also ensure consistency across Wisconsin for consumers, retailers and suppliers.

Since Dane County’s ban took effect four years ago, retailers and homeowners have worked fabulously together to reduce the amount of phosphorus that goes into our lakes, and thereby the excessive algae growth linked to too much phosphorus.  Their shared goal of having healthier lakes ensures families will be able to enjoy these natural treasures for generations to come.

I thank Representative Spencer Black and Senator Mark Miller for their leadership on this issue and look forward to continued joint efforts between local and state government to protect and improve the quality of our lakes.”

Dane County’s ordinance is similar to the legislation, SB5 and AB3 introduced in the State Senate and Assembly. 

Dane County Supervisor Brett Hulsey, Chair of the County’s Lakes and Watershed Commission will testify at Wednesday’s hearing.

 

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