Citrus County Board discusses fertilizer ordinance amid environmental concerns and fish die-off

The Citrus County Board of County Commissioners meeting on March 25, 2025, focused on environmental concerns, particularly regarding fertilizer usage and its impact on local waterways. The discussion was sparked by recent incidents of manatee deaths and fish kills, raising questions about water quality and the effectiveness of existing regulations.

Commissioner Finnegan expressed skepticism about the implementation of a summer fertilizer ordinance, citing a lack of conclusive evidence from studies conducted by the University of Florida. He suggested that the board should gather more data on current fertilizer violations before considering new regulations. Other commissioners echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the need for further education and workshops to better understand the implications of fertilizer use on water quality.

The board also discussed the potential for collaboration with the city of Crystal River to address issues related to grass clippings, which contribute to nutrient loading in waterways. Commissioner Beaz highlighted the challenges of enforcing existing fertilizer ordinances, particularly among professional landscapers, and suggested that any new initiatives should be carefully evaluated.

In addition to the fertilizer discussions, the board approved a request for an attorney-client session regarding a legal matter involving Cardinal Farms Group LLC, scheduled for April 8, 2025.

Public comments during the meeting underscored the urgency of monitoring water quality and the need for effective feedback mechanisms to assess the success of environmental protection efforts. Concerns were raised about the adequacy of current water quality testing methods, particularly regarding nitrogen levels and other contaminants.

Overall, the meeting highlighted the board's commitment to addressing environmental issues while recognizing the complexities involved in regulating fertilizer use and protecting local waterways. The commissioners agreed to pursue further discussions and data collection to inform future decisions.