Title
Authorization to Apply for Washington Department of Ecology Grant and the National Estuary Program Addressing Nutrient Pollution in Budd Inlet
Body
Issue:
The purpose of this report is to request Council approval for submitting a Budd Inlet water quality grant through the Washington Department of Ecology (WDOE).
Committee Recommendation:
Not referred to a committee.
City Manager's Recommendation:
Move to authorize staff to submit grant application.
Staff Contact:
Andy Haub, P.E., Public Works Water Resources, 360.570.3795
Presenter(s):
None - Consent Item
Background and Analysis:
Applications for grant funding under WDOE and the National Estuary Program (NEP) addressing nutrient pollution in Budd Inlet are due on September 18, 2013.
The funding opportunity is specific to Budd Inlet and its ongoing problems with nutrient loading. Nutrients prompt marine plant growth and associated low dissolved oxygen concentrations. Both surface and ground waters discharge elevated levels of nutrients from a range of sources including sewage, agriculture, and fertilizers. Numerous regional efforts are underway to better manage Budd Inlet and its problems.
City Storm and Surface Water staff propose to submit an application that builds upon our recent lawn care technical assistance program for Olympia residents. During 2011 and 2012, staff worked with landscaping consultants and residents to identify viable alternatives to extensive lawn fertilizer applications. Under contract with the City, the consultants met with homeowners, discussed their lawn care goals, evaluated their lawns, and prescribed lawn care approaches. A consistent finding of the work is that fertilizer is overused. Participants learned that soil aeration, in concert with lime application, is key to a healthy, green lawn. Residential goals for their lawns can be met without appreciable fertilizer use.
Through this grant, staff and regional partners seek to expand the lawn ca...
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