News

Wisconsin governor signs phosphorus ban

Governor Jim Doyle signed the bill banning the use of phosphorus in most lawnfertilizers on Tuesday. Phosphorus runoff has been blamed for contributing to algae growth in state waters.

The new law takes effect in a year, it bans the use of phosphorus on turf and prohibits stores from displaying fertilizers which contain the element. Use wouldstill be allowed on new lawns and on phosphorus-deficient soils so retailers could post a sign saying it is available off the sales floor.