Reducing phosphorus use









	Reducing phosphorus use
	Reducing traffic








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For more than 50 years, we have known that increasing levels of phosphorus - found in things such as lawn fertilizer and detergents - are harming Lake Simcoe . Phosphorus artificially increase weed growth and algae in lakes and rivers, which choke off the water's life support systems, and many local citizens who live around the lake have worked hard for years to bring attention to this crucial issue. One of the first warning signs is decreasing fish populations and indeed Lake Simcoe 's cold water fisheries have declined over time. The lake no longer replenishes its own fish population and many stocks are imported.

The largest source of phosphorus is poorly planned growth, which funnels them

into nearby water. Over time, the effects of phosphorus use grow and already there is large aquatic "dead zone" in Lake Erie that has proven unresponsive to efforts to try and make things better. It's clear the best solution is to reduce phosphorous use in the first place - or watch Lake Simcoe 's health decline and the many industries that depend upon it shrink. In addition, the many species at risk in the Lake Simcoe area will continue to see problems and more than 65 such species are on this list.

There are ways - expensive ones - to try and reduce phosphorus from water before it gets into rivers and lakes, but the best way is to reduce phosphorous use to begin with. And, direct development away from sensitive green spaces close to the water, wetlands and forests so we don't make the problem worse.

Here are a few quick tips to reduce phosphorus and help protect Lake Simcoe :

Reduce watering of lawns and do it the mornings. The more water that goes on your lawn, the more that enters the lake taking phosphorus with it, and over-watering does not help your plants grow.
Plant some trees. Trees help reduce run-off into rivers and lakes, and also help keep our air cleaner.
Let your grass grow a bit higher and leave the clippings on it. This creates healthier lawns with better growth and also fertilizes naturally.
Lawn fertilizers are a very large source of phosphorus and if you're going to fertilize, do it in the fall with a low-phosphorous, organic fertilizer. If we want a healthy Lake Simcoe we have to reduce the amount of lawn fertilizer we use.
Detergents - for laundry, cars, dishes - also are a large source of phosphorus. Many detergent manufacturers including large commercial producers have phosphorous-free detergents, so make sure you check the label before you buy.
For more on keeping Lake Simcoe healthy, and lots of information about grass, lawns and tips to keep them healthy visit the Wave program. It's a local initiative filled with tons of good ideas that work anywhere. And everywhere!

CopyRight@Campaign Lake Simcoe, coordinated by Environmental Defence
317 Adelaide Street West, Suite 705 Toronto , ON M5V 1P9
Tel: 416-323-9521 Fax: 416-323-9301