New grant helps farmers fight phosphorus runoff

Grand River Conservation Authority sign on June 4, 2022.

The Grand River Conservation Authority is offering funds to help farmers fight phosphorus runoff in the Grand River watershed.

Phosphorus is a nutrient that maintains healthy ecosystems and helps plants grow, but excessive amounts can lead to harmful algal blooms which can hurt aquatic life and even produce toxins.

The conservation authority is offering a grant to fund projects such as soil testing and crop nutrient planning, cover crops, erosion control structures, stream fencing and tree planting.

The grant is a part of the Grand River Priority Watersheds Phosphorus Reduction Program, which supports farmers who use practices that keep phosphorus out of the water. The GRCA said the Nith River and Fairchild Creek subwatersheds have been identified as priority areas.

“Projects to manage runoff and help maximize nutrient use efficiency will also help improve soil health, biodiversity and flood mitigation,” said GRCA Supervisor of Conservation Outreach Louise Heyming in the release. “What’s good for farm productivity and sustainability is also good for landscape resilience and watershed health.”