Some Fertilizers May Threaten Barnstable Ecosystem: Town Manager

BARNSTABLE, MA — Town Manager Mark Ells warned Barnstable residents some chemicals in plant fertilizers are negatively affecting Cape Cod's ecosystem.

Following, recently reported cases of cyanobacteria in Cape Cod ponds and fresh water supplies, town officials reminded residents the bacteria can come from a number of sources including fertilizers with chemicals.

Although cyanobacteria can form naturally, Ells said being mindful of chemicals in fertilizer is important in preventing the spread of bacteria outbreaks in the water supply.

"Excessive nutrient enrichment of the region’s groundwater and water bodies, caused by improper or excessive applications of fertilizer, may result in significant public health ramifications," Ells said in a statement. "Some of these ramifications include detrimental effects on drinking water sources by increased concentrations of nitrates. This can have a negative impact on economic, environmental, and recreational resources and values in the town and region."

Ells reminded residents of the following dos and don'ts when using fertilizer. Failing to follow these rules may result in a $300 fine or the town requiring you to get a permit before using fertilizer.

Don't:

• Don’t apply fertilizer during or immediately prior to heavy rainfall;
• Don’t apply fertilizer or compost between November 12 and the following March 31;
• Don’t apply, spill, or deposit fertilizer onto any impervious surfaces;
• Don’t apply, spill, or deposit fertilizer in a manner that allows fertilizer to enter any storm drains;
• Don’t apply fertilizer that contains phosphorous, unless a soil test was taken not more than three years prior, which indicates phosphorous is needed for growth of that turf, or unless establishing a new turf, reestablishing turf, or repairing turf after substantial damage or land disturbance; and
• Don’t deposit grass clippings, leaves or any other vegetative debris into or within 50 feet of water bodies, retention areas, drainage ditches, stormwater drains, or onto impervious surfaces.

DO:

• Do ensure a single application of fertilizer that contains nitrogen does not exceed 1 .0 pounds of actual nitrogen per thousand square feet;
• Do ensure single application of fertilizer shall consist of at least 20% slow-release nitrogen; and do ensure the annual application rate of fertilizer does not exceed 3.2 pounds of actual nitrogen per thousand square feet.