Phosphorus Reduction Key For Lake Erie, Report Says

The U.S. and Canada have finalized and begun implementation of a phosphorus reduction plan for Lake Erie, according to a progress report issued on the health of the Great Lakes.

The new report, released in the U.S. by the EPA, details progress made between 2017 and 2019 in improving and maintaining the quality of the Great Lakes. Among the many efforts undertaken through America and Canada, are plans that specifically impact Lake Erie, namely: a phosphorus reduction strategy, research into curtailing the spread of algae, measures to curb chemical dumping into the waters, limiting the spread of non-indigenous species and more.

“Now, more than ever, we know how important it is to protect the health of natural ecosystems. The Great Lakes provide trillions of dollars to the Canadian and U.S. economies, and the region is home to tens of millions of people. A healthy environment and a strong economy go hand in hand. For nearly five decades, Canada and the United States have worked together to improve the health of the Great Lakes through the Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement, and we will continue to work together to protect this important shared resource," said Catherine McKenna, minister of Environment and Climate Change.

Both the U.S. and Canada are working together to reduce phosphorous levels in Lake Erie. Why do phosphorus levels matter? High phosphorus levels contribute directly to the formation of toxic algae blooms, like the one that spread in Lake Erie in 2011. That algae bloom disturbed drinking water for many in the Toledo region and killed some fish, the U.S. Geological Survey noted.

While algae blooms aren't directly harmful to aquatic life, as the blooms break down they consume oxygen, leaving pockets of low-oxygen levels where fish cannot survive, the USGS said. When the algae is consumed by humans or their pets, it can cause flu-like symptoms.

The U.S. and Canada are working together to create phosphorus load reduction targets for the eastern basin of Lake Erie, with the hope of preventing further toxic algae blooms. However, some U.S. goals already exist — for instance, Michigan is trying to reduce its phosphorus contributions to the lake by 40 percent.

To reduce those phosphorus levels, Michigan officials are requiring nutrient management plans to be submitted to the state (about 5,000 plans have been turned in), and the Michigan State University Water Research group is planting cover crops to protect tributaries from runoff and preserve water quality.

“EPA and the Trump Administration are committed to working with our Canadian partners on conservation and cleanup efforts in the Great Lakes region. We look forward to continued progress in preserving the Great Lakes and keeping our waters clean through our partnership under the Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement," said Andrew Wheeler, administrator, EPA.

The full report on the progress of the health of the Great Lakes has been shared online.