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Member Zietlow introduced the following resolution and moved its adoption:
CITY OF MEDINA
RESOLUTION NO. 98-19
RESOLUTION CONCERNING THE APPLICATION OF
COMMERCIAL FERTILIZER CONTAINING PHOSPHORUS
WHEREAS the city council of the City of Medina finds that in order to protect the
natural environment of the City and to maintain the pleasure of the natural environment by its
residents, it has become necessary to restrict or prohibit the use of phosphorus in the application
of commercially produced fertilizer; and
WHEREAS phosphorus is a natural occurring element in the environment, excess
phosphorus levels may occur due to the decaying of vegetation such as wetland plants or tree
leaves, failing septic systems, improperly handled animal waste, or run off from maintained grass
surfaces that are over fertilized with a phosphorus blend of fertilizer; and
WHEREAS excess phosphorus is detrimental to wetlands and lakes. Studies have found
that a pound of phosphorus in a body of water can yield 500 pounds of algae. Algae can turn a
blue lake green and damage or even kill the lakes eco-system; and
WHEREAS natural occurring phosphorus is difficult to control; and
WHEREAS most residential maintained lawns do not need a phosphorus fertilizer; and
WHEREAS non -essential phosphorus applied to lawns contributes to the problem.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the city council of the City of Medina,
Minnesota declares as its aspiration and goal that no individual apply any fertilizer containing
phosphorus to any non -agriculture property without first ascertaining the need for the
phosphorus. Phosphorus may be applied under one or more of the following conditions:
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1. Newly seeded or sodded lawns
2. Re-establishment of existing lawns where grasses are thin
3. Under the direction of a licensed agronomist or soil expert
4. After obtaining a soil sample that results show a phosphorus deficiency
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that it shall become the responsibility of individual
property owners to make themselves aware of the harmful affect of excess phosphorus in the
environment and to practice sound lawn fertilization methods:
1. Decide if fertilizing is really necessary
2. Purchase fertilizer that is phosphorus free
3. Read and follow manufacturer's instructions for fertilizer application
4. Wait until mid -May to fertilize
5. Fill your spreader on a hard surface where spills can be cleaned up. Never wash
fertilizer spills into the street where it is carried to surface water through the storm
sewer system. Be sure the gate is closed on the spreader when crossing hard surfaces
6. Avoid getting fertilizer into natural drainage areas or pathways where it can be carried
into surface water. Near shorelines, leave a buffer of natural vegetation to prevent
erosion and retain nutrients.
Dated: March 17, 1998
f I. Ferris, Mayor
ATTEST:
Paul Robinson, Clerk -Treasurer
The motion for the adoption of the foregoing resolution was duly seconded by member Hamilton
and upon vote being taken
thereon, the following voted in favor thereof: Ferris, Hamilton, Johnson, Thies, and Zietlow
and the following voted against the same: None
Whereupon said resolution was declared duly passed and adopted
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03-17-98