Curb fertilizer runoff to prevent toxic algal blooms

To: Sen. Murray, Sen. Cantwell, Rep. Newhouse

From: A constituent in Kennewick, WA

September 24

Nutrient pollution from fertilizer runoff is contributing to increased harmful algal blooms that pose serious risks to human health. Excess nutrients in freshwater sources can trigger outbreaks of toxic cyanobacteria blooms, leading to health consequences ranging from skin irritation to liver cancer and failure after long-term exposure. Marine harmful algal blooms can contaminate seafood, presenting delayed health effects through consumption. Reducing fertilizer runoff from both crop agriculture and concentrated animal feeding operations is crucial to mitigating eutrophication and protecting water resources used for drinking and recreation. Comprehensive strategies are urgently needed to decrease nutrient loading and the associated public health hazards of harmful algal blooms.

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