Recent research shows that nutrient loads from urban areas meet or exceed the agricultural sector. Primary inputs to urban runoff include fertilizers, natural amendments, and lawn debris which contribute nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) to our stormwater systems.  Educating homeowners on the relationship between over fertilization and improperly timed nutrient applications is imperative to improve water quality.  The public education program "No P on My Lawn!" was developed to engage with the residential audience about proper nutrient management.  Phosphorus fertilizer applications are targeted because 25 years (1990 - 2014) of soils data show that 96% of Fayette County home lawns and gardens will not benefit from phosphorus applications.  The program outlines the issues associated with over fertilization, demonstrates the benefit and method of soil testing, and emphasizes appropriate plant nutrient applications utilizing the 5R approach to nutrient management: right source, right rate, right time, right place, right price.  

Program impacts are measured through surveys which assess homeowner practices, understanding and changes in behavior as a result of the workshop. Initial results from the survey of current lawn care practices show that at least 50% of homeowners apply their own fertilizers, yet of those surveyed, 69% had not conducted a soil test.  Assessments of level of participant understanding prior to workshops showed that over half had an above average understanding that excessive nutrients negatively impact water quality, yet most did not realize that urban areas contribute excess nutrients to stormwater.  A survey of intentions post-workshop indicates that participants are willing to change their current practices and adopt the 5R method including conducting a soil test prior to applying P (94%), applying at the right time and rate (100%), and properly placing fertilizer to minimize impact to runoff (98%).  Through the program, homeowners have been assisted with collection of 202 samples for soil tests. Results from these samples along with 252 samples from public areas around Fayette County confirm the 25-year data that most Fayette County lawns will need no P.  These preliminary results confirm the need for increased public education in the area of nutrient management and indicate that an informed public will select for behaviors that will reduce nutrient contributions to stormwater.