New phosphorus reduction program receives $17.41 million from Canada Water Agency

A new funding program is available for landowners looking to introduce or expand agricultural best management practices (BMPs) on their properties. The Thames River Phosphorus Reduction Program promotes the adoption of a variety of BMPs that are proven to reduce losses of phosphorus from agricultural lands.

These practices not only improve the water quality of the Thames River and downstream waterways, but they can also have a positive impact on soil health and agricultural production.

Canada Water Agency has committed $17.41 million over four years to support the Thames River Phosphorus Reduction Program, which will be administered by the the Upper Thames River Conservation Authority (UTRCA).

UTRCA said in a release the funding will help address environmental challenges impacting water quality in the Great Lakes and the health of its ecosystem, including the issue of phosphorus loading.

In 2022, phosphorus loading from Canada to Lake Erie reached 2,091 tonnes, with approximately 53 per cent of phosphorus in the Huron-Erie corridor – encompassing the Thames River – originating from non-point sources. UTRCA said this program is an essential step in reducing phosphorus levels and protecting freshwater resources.

“While overall water quality has remained stable across the subwatersheds, as indicated by the UTRCA Watershed Report Cards, there is still significant room for improvement to reduce phosphorus loading within the Thames River,” said Tatianna Lozier, stewardship services coordinator with UTRCA.

This program will aim to reduce phosphorus from the highest contributing areas of the watershed through strategic conservation planning while encouraging broad scale adoption of practices to achieve reductions across the watershed. Several BMPs will be eligible for funding over the next four years, including cover crops, soil testing, crop nutrient planning, erosion control structures, and subsurface fertilizer placement or prescription applications of phosphorus-based fertilizers and manure.

 “There is a long history of conservation efforts across public and private lands, including agricultural properties. Between 2016 and 2020, over 200 Best Management Practice (BMP) projects were successfully implemented through the ongoing Clean Water Program, laying a strong foundation for future progress,” said Lozier. “The Thames River Phosphorus Reduction Program will build on this success and further enhance our impact.”

To learn more and apply for funding, visit the Thames River Phosphorus Reduction Program web page or contact Tatianna Lozier at [email protected] / 519-451-2800 extension 233.