South Florida farmers again beat benchmark, cut phosphorous levels 62% from baseline

Farmers in the Everglades Agricultural Area have again cut their levels of phosphorus runoff, which can cause toxic algae growth in waterways, by more than double what’s required under federal law.

In the past year, farmers reduced their levels by 62%, well above the 25% target under the 1994 Everglades Forever Act. The South Florida Water Management District (SFWMD) announced the achievement at a recent board meeting in West Palm Beach.

“We’re very proud of the work that we’ve done,” said Stephen Basore, director of food safety for TKM Bengard Farms, one of several farmers SFWMD recognized for their work.

– Ryan Nicol, Florida Politics