EPA and USDA holding joint workshop on financing nutrient management projects

Key Takeaways

On November 17th, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) are hosting a joint workshop on financing nutrient management projects in underserved communities. Nutrient management includes managing nitrogen and phosphorous pollution in land, air and water from sources such as fertilizers, soil amendments, sewage and runoff. The webinar will take place on Wednesday, November 17, from 12–3 p.m. ET. Click here to register.

Nutrient management projects are essential for ensuring the sustainability of our environment and protecting our nation’s water sources. Nutrient loads and land use contribute to increases in cyanobacteria and harmful algal blooms (HABs). HABS, commonly referred to as “red tide,” and other hypoxic events can cause adverse health issues and be economically damaging. The toxins produced by HABs can be contained in shellfish, and when airborne, they can cause respiratory problems. Additionally, HABS reduce tourism, close beaches and decrease the catch from recreational and commercial fisheries.

Counties encourage the EPA to collaborate with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to identify nutrient reduction strategies and scalable HABs mitigation processes. The Build Back Better Act would provide funding to NOAA for research and implementation of the Harmful Algal Bloom and Hypoxia Research and Control Act (HABHRCA), and counties support the renewal of the HABHRCA. NACo will keep members informed of updates on nutrient management and reduction strategies.