fertilizer

It's about that time of year where you'll begin to see people burning leaves, wood, and plant debris where it's allowed in the community. It creates both air and water pollution and impacts the health of our waterways. Add in the issue of fertilizer and phosphorous runoff, and the environmental and ecological impacts add up. WEMU's David Fair discussed the significance of the problem and what's being done about it with Lauren Koloski from the Office of the Washtenaw County Water Resources Commissioner.

A planned potash and salt production plant is a step closer to receiving state funding. Colin Jackson has more on the effort to produced more of the key fertilizer ingredient domestically.

Soaring fuel and fertilizer prices, the impacts of the Russian invasion of Ukraine and climate-related issues are making farming a greater challenge. There are more than 1,000 farms in Washtenaw County and, for many, the future is uncertain. WEMU's David Fair discussed agricultural challenges and solutions with MSU assistant professor and extension economist Mathew Gammans.

Toxic PFAS "forever chemicals" are a worsening problem in our land and water and, now, our food supply. Beef produced at a small Livingston County farm was found to contain PFAS. How prevalent is the problem? WEMU's David Fair and Lisa Wozniak of the Michigan League of Conservation Voters explore this specific issue in context of the larger PFAS problem with Tony Spaniola, co-chair of the Great Lakes PFAS Action Network.

Gardening season is in full swing, and folks are ready to buy the essentials, such as natural fertilizers. Yet, buyers should beware. A national study…

Searching for new sources of natural fertilizer is an ongoing process, and a University of Michigan research project is exploring use of an unending…