After two decades of research, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has approved a plan to reduce phosphorus pollution in Cayuga Lake by 30%. The Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) aims to curb harmful algal blooms and improve water quality, with New York’s Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) noting that more than 90% of the lake’s phosphorus comes from nonpoint sources, primarily agriculture.
The TMDL will guide efforts across the Cayuga Lake watershed, with phosphorus reduction strategies focusing on erosion control, agricultural best practices, and improvements to wastewater treatment facilities. Local stakeholders and municipalities will implement these measures to meet water quality standards.
State officials, including DEC Interim Commissioner Sean Mahar, praised the collaboration with the EPA, emphasizing that the plan will protect Cayuga Lake as a vital resource for recreation, tourism, and drinking water for generations to come.
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