Lawns

When I worked in the fertilizer business the farmers were always getting beat up by the State for the amount of phosphorus and nitrates in the water. I worked with the farmers as an agronomist and thought they were doing a pretty good job.

They soil tested and usually only used enough fertilizer to have a positive return on investment. Michigan law required the farmers with livestock to file a plan where the manure could be safely spread. I helped the farmers write some of those plans and could verify they were sound.

You know who didn't soil test, over fertilized and overwatered? That's right he home owners and their lawns. I am happy to report that the State and our universities are just beginning to recognize that the largest contributors to our water pollution problem are the home owners. I am waiting to see the State starting to do an educational campaign on TV but it hasn't happened yet.