Ohio Lawmakers Limit Surface Manure and Fertilizer Applications

New regulations aim to curb phosphorus runoff and toxic algae blooms in Lake Erie

Apr. 18, 2026 at 6:41am

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A highly textured, abstract painting in earthy greens, blues, and browns, featuring sweeping geometric shapes and precise botanical spirals that conceptually represent the complex natural and human forces driving phosphorus pollution in Lake Erie.A new Ohio law aims to curb the phosphorus runoff fueling toxic algae blooms in Lake Erie, a vital natural resource for the state.Toledo Today

In response to a major toxic algae bloom in Lake Erie that disrupted water access for half a million Toledo residents, Ohio lawmakers have passed Senate Bill 1 to limit surface applications of manure and fertilizer in watersheds along the lake's western basin. The new regulations are designed to curb phosphorus runoff, which is the main driver of the harmful algae growth.

Why it matters

Phosphorus runoff from agricultural activities is a major environmental issue in the Great Lakes region, leading to toxic algae blooms that threaten drinking water supplies and aquatic ecosystems. The new Ohio law is part of a broader effort to address this problem and protect the water quality of Lake Erie, an important natural resource for the state.

The details

Senate Bill 1 places restrictions on surface applications of manure and commercial fertilizers in the watersheds that drain into the western basin of Lake Erie. Farmers in these areas will now be required to keep detailed records of their nutrient applications to demonstrate compliance with the new regulations.

  • In the summer of 2025, a major toxic algae bloom disrupted water access for half a million residents in Toledo, Ohio.
  • Senate Bill 1 was passed by Ohio lawmakers in early 2026 to address the phosphorus runoff issue.

The players

Ohio Senate

The state legislative body that passed Senate Bill 1 to regulate surface applications of manure and fertilizer in watersheds around Lake Erie.

Lake Erie

A Great Lakes body of water that has experienced recurring toxic algae blooms driven by phosphorus runoff from agricultural activities in surrounding watersheds.

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What’s next

Farmers in the affected watersheds will need to carefully document their nutrient application practices to demonstrate compliance with the new regulations under Senate Bill 1.

The takeaway

The new Ohio law is a significant step in addressing the longstanding problem of phosphorus pollution and toxic algae blooms in Lake Erie, which have threatened drinking water supplies and aquatic ecosystems. However, the success of the regulations will depend on effective implementation and enforcement by state and local authorities.