Database

Avoid using fertilizers near water bodies

Habitat	Function	Type of work
Forest	Nutrient cycle	Fertilization

Only organic fertilisers, natural mineral fertilisers, natural soil conditioners, Bio-stimulants and Bio-regulators can be used on forest land. Natural mineral fertilisers are e.g. wood, peat, straw, hay and root ash, soil conditioners are lime, dolomite powder, shale ash. The use of chemically synthesised mineral fertilisers (e.g. phosphorus fertilisers) is not allowed under the Forest Act.

Description of the action

Avoid using fertilizers near natural water bodies and drainage ditches (within 20 m).

Why?

Fertilizers should not be used too close to water bodies. Sediments and suspended particles entering water bodies degrade habitats, cause excessive nutrient accumulation leading to algal and plant overgrowth, oxygen depletion, and potential blockages.