Restricting Fertilizer - Makes Sense

When the Suffolk County legislature passed a law recently which would limit the application of nitrogen based fertilizers during the winter months (between November 1 and April 1) it sounded like one more government intrusion into private lives. Upon further review, however, it turns out to be a really good idea.

It seems that the quality of Long Island's drinking water needed some improvement as well as protection from the threat of contamination by excessive use of fertilizers. It was found that 17 percent of public water supply wells and 10 percent of private wells exceeded the 10mg maximum contaminant level set for nitrates for safe drinking water.

The restriction goes into effect after January of 2009 and will be monitored by the Department of Health. Violations are subject to $1000 fines. Good law and will apply to homeowners, commercial growers and County properties. Golf courses, athletic fields and newly planted or sodded areas are exempt. Don't like the exemptions but we have to start somewhere.