4R in the News: How drones could limit fertilizer flow into Lake Erie

A toxic algae bloom in Lake Erie this summer left the city of Toledo, Ohio, without drinking water for three days. Now environmentalists and farmers are working to prevent future blooms by evaluating fertilizer use in hopes of cutting excess runoff.

Christy McDonald of Detroit Public Television recently reported on how drones may be a tool for maximizing crops and minimizing pollution. She interviewed Larry Antosch of the Nutrient Stewardship Council, who provided insight on 4R Nutrient Stewardship’s role in improving Lake Erie’s water quality.

“(The) 4R program really looks at blending together conservation practices for nutrient management, that protect the economic, the social and environmental concerns of — of society and of the farmer themselves,” Antosch said, adding that the “agricultural community has been engaged in the discussions early on to — to be part of the solution.”

Click here to view the video and read the transcript of the report.