SR1775 Summary

• Illinois Senate supports the Nutrient Loss Reduction Strategy developed in 2015 by the Environmental Protection Agency, Department of Agriculture, and a Policy Working Group to address excessive nutrient levels degrading state waterways and contributing to the Gulf of Mexico dead zone

• Strategy targets a 15% reduction in nitrogen loads and 25% reduction in phosphorus loads by 2025 from baseline levels (1980-1996), with a long-term goal of 45% reduction in both nutrients by 2035

• Initial biennial report (2017) documented a 10% reduction in nitrogen loads but a 17% increase in phosphorus loads, while highlighting educational efforts and agricultural conservation practices implemented across the state

• Senate encourages implementing agencies and partners to maintain regular communication with the General Assembly to report progress and request support for activities and programs needed to achieve the Strategy's goals