MA H994

Prohibits the application of fertilizers containing nitrogen or phosphorus in the Town of Orleans to protect fresh and salt water bodies from algae and aquatic plant growth

Exempts commercial agricultural use and residential use of OMRI-listed certified organic fertilizers with low nitrogen and phosphorus for growing fruits and vegetables

Overrides the Massachusetts Department of Agriculture's exclusive statewide authority over fertilizer regulation for this specific municipality

Addresses Orleans' unique coarse, sandy soils that allow rapid water infiltration and nutrient leaching into groundwater and surface waters

Intended to help Orleans achieve compliance with state-mandated Total Maximum Daily Loads (TMDL) for nitrogen and phosphorus