Prosperous Phosphorous P15

Phosphorous is a critical and necessary element and part of our body chemistry. When it binds to oxygen it is known as phosphate and is part of the fuel that literally powers our bodies (ATP). It is required for life, both human and plant. But, just like everything balance is critical!

Central Florida is famous for large farms with abundant production of fresh healthy vegetables and fruits. The quality and quantity of produce from these farms is largely driven by modern day fertilizers containing nitrogen and phosphorous. An unfortunate negative side effect the runoff into Lake Okeechobee. The Corp of Engineers must manage the flood water during heavy rains, resulting in toxic sludge and water being discharged down The St Lucie River and The Caloosahatchee River. The result is toxic nitrogen and phosphorous loving algae blooms down both coasts, negatively impacting water oxygen, sea life and our environment.

Marco’s local water management is a much smaller issue, but more under our control. The Marco runoff water contains fertilizers and treated wastewaters that more directly contaminate our canals. More research and investigation of alternative and efficient water treatment processes, such as “Enhanced Biological Phosphorus Removal” or EBPR should be done. Marco is not alone in the world with this problem! There are some genius minds, and amazing new technologies developing for wastewater management and treatment. We should be proactive and smart, not reactive and ignorant!