Local Landowners Lead the Way in Phosphorus Reduction Efforts  

With funding from the Canada Water Agency, the Upper Thames River Conservation Authority (UTRCA) launched the Upper Thames Phosphorus Reduction Program in the fall of last year, to help reduce the amount of phosphorus reaching Lake Erie. While phosphorus enters the environment in many ways, one of the most challenging sources to manage is runoff from rain events, especially across large rural and agricultural areas. This program is designed to support and strengthen on-the-ground efforts by offering funding, tools, and technical guidance to implement practical solutions that work for individual farms as well as the entire watershed.  

The first year of this program was a success with over 595 on-the-ground projects across more than 35,000 acres – leading to an estimated annual reduction of 12,500 pounds of phosphorus entering the Upper Thames River. These results were made possible through actions like reduced tillage, cover crops, crop nutrient planning, erosion control, and more. Next month, we will be launching year two – with more project categories and opportunities to get involved. Thank you to everyone who is helping to protect the watershed and shape a healthier future for generations to come. Stay tuned!