State Fertilizer Bill Currently In The Works

The New Jersey Landscape Contractors Association (NJLCA) is working closely with the New Jersey Green Industry Council (NJGIC) to protect industry interests regarding a state fertilizer bill currently in the works. According to an alert published by NJLCA, highlights of the bill include:

• The bill authorizes state standards for fertilizer applications to turf grass and establishes certification of fertilization best management practices.
• The bill includes science based technical references for fertilization management practices.
• The bill supersedes all county and local acts and seeks to establish one state law for consistency.
• The bill does not include landscaped areas, it is strictly for turf grass areas.
• The bill requires professional applicators to be certified.
• The bill imposes a $100 / violation penalty.

The bill specifies prohibited conduct by professionals, such as:

• Prohibits application of phosphorus above 0.3 lbs in a single application unless need demonstrated by soil test;
• Prohibits application of fertilizer to impervious surfaces;
• Prohibits application of fertilizer with 10?EUR??,,????'?????<
• Prohibits application on frozen ground or between dates of 12/15 ?EUR??,,????'?????<