On May 13, the Hernando County Commission will vote on whether to keep or undo the rainy season urban fertilizer ban. We urge the Commission to keep the ban in place—because protecting our water, economy, and way of life shouldn’t be up for debate.
This low-cost, common-sense policy safeguards our springs, rivers, and coastlines by preventing nitrogen and phosphorus runoff during Florida’s wettest months—June through September. Runoff fuels algal blooms, kills fish and seagrass, and threatens the manatees that make Weeki Wachee a true Hernando and statewide treasure.
Two years ago, the commission unanimously adopted this ordinance, joining 18 counties and over 100 municipalities across Florida. It’s backed by objective science and common sense. Residents comply when informed, and stores carry slow-release and nitrogen-free alternatives that keep lawns healthy without polluting our water.
A 2024 IFAS review of rainy season bans found no harm to landscapes or water quality. After reviewing these facts, the Florida Legislature restored local control over rainy season bans. These policies are a fiscally conservative way to meet FL-DEP nutrient reduction goals and stretch public dollars further.
Hernando is spending $3 million on septic upgrades to remove 4,600 pounds of pollution. Repealing the ban that costs nothing would add 33,264 pounds. Shouldn’t we expect our local government to protect our investment—not undermine it? Let’s not take one step forward and two steps back. Keep the rainy season ban.
DeeVon Quirolo
Chair, Sierra Club Adventure Coast Group
