Recycle Phosphorus Before It Goes Into Public Waters

Recycle phosphorus while it’s still on the farm, and you can help prevent the nutrient from flowing downstream — where it could pollute water bodies — says a University of Florida scientist.

Reusing phosphorus using on-farm ponds can cost the state less than $40 per kilogram compared to $355 to $909 to treat the phosphorus before it goes downstream, according to a new study led by Sanjay Shukla, a UF/IFAS professor of agricultural and biological engineering.

The study was published recently in the journal Science of The Total Environment. The idea is to harvest the plants inside ponds, compost them and provide them to the growers for use at no cost. This recycling treats phosphorus at 90% less cost compared to what the state is spending to meet the phosphorus concentration goals in the Everglades.

Learn more about Recycle Phosphorus Before It Goes Into Public Waters.