06/01/2026
🚨 REMINDER: Summer Fertilizer Bans Begin June 1 Across Most of the Indian River Lagoon Watershed 🚨
Starting tomorrow, June 1, summer fertilizer restrictions take effect in most counties, cities, and towns throughout the Indian River Lagoon watershed.
These ordinances are designed to reduce the amount of nitrogen and phosphorus washing into our waterways during Florida's rainy season. Excess nutrients fuel algae blooms that damage seagrass, harm wildlife, and degrade water quality in the Indian River Lagoon.
🌿 We know some residents question whether fertilizer bans are fair when there are many other sources of nutrient pollution impacting the Lagoon. That's a valid concern. Septic systems, wastewater infrastructure, stormwater runoff, legacy sediments, agricultural runoff, and other sources also contribute nutrients to the system and require continued attention and investment.
At the same time, fertilizer ordinances were never intended to be the only solution. They are one tool among many.
Reducing nutrient pollution from residential landscapes during the rainy season is a practical step that communities can take while broader restoration efforts continue.
Protecting the Indian River Lagoon requires action from everyone: homeowners, businesses, farmers, developers, local governments, state agencies, and environmental organizations alike. No single action will restore the balance between algae & seagrass in the Lagoon, but many actions working together can make a meaningful difference.
📍 Residents should check the specific ordinance that applies where they live, as requirements can vary somewhat by county, city, and town.
💧 Every pound of nutrients kept out of the water is one less pound available to fuel algae blooms.
💚 Thank you to everyone who does their part to help reduce nutrient pollution and protect the Indian River Lagoon for future generations.
