Assessing Resident Knowledge and Attitudes Towards Urban Landscape Fertilizer Ordinance in Hernando County, Florida
Applied Research
Yilin Zhuang
Water Resources Regional Specialized Agent
University of Florida
Apopka
Abstract
In Florida, urban landscape fertilizer ordinances have been implemented across over 100 counties and municipalities to address nutrient pollution in waterbodies and promote sustainable landscape practices. This study focused on Hernando County, Florida, where recent amendments to the existing ordinance expanded seasonal restrictions. The primary objective was to assess residents' knowledge, behaviors, and attitudes towards fertilizer use and the amended ordinance, with the goal of developing educational materials that encourage responsible fertilizer application practices. The research utilized both quantitative and qualitative methods, including an online survey and focus groups. The online survey, distributed through social media and the Hernando County Extension and Utilities Department networks, reached a broad group of residents, collecting 740 responses. It assessed residents’ understanding of fertilizer application practices and their familiarity with the local ordinance. Focus groups provided deeper insights into individuals’ perceptions, concerns, and barriers to compliance. The survey results revealed that most respondents fertilize their lawns themselves, with approximately half residing on one-quarter to one-half acre properties. Fertilizer application generally occurs in April, May, and October, with respondents purchasing two to four 40-pound bags of fertilizer annually and using up to one full bag per application. 65% respondents reported not performing soil tests on their lawns, indicating a knowledge gap regarding best practices for fertilizer application. While many respondents understood the meaning of N-P-K ratios on fertilizer bags, awareness of how these nutrients relate to proper fertilizer use was limited. Furthermore, most respondents were unaware of the specific timeframes and procedures for fertilizer application mandated by the Hernando County ordinance. Focus group participants expressed strong support for the ordinance’s environmental goals but were unaware of key aspects, such as restricted application periods and required buffer zones near surface water. They raised concerns about enforcement and suggested increased outreach through channel such as email, social media, and community events. Based on the findings, recommendations included developing targeted educational programs emphasizing soil testing and proper fertilizer application, enhancing communication strategies to improve ordinance compliance, and comparing findings to other counties to inform future outreach initiatives.
Poster has NOT been presented at any previous NACAA AM/PIC
This poster is being submitted for judging. It will be displayed at the AM/PIC if not selected as a State winner. The abstract will be published in the proceedings.
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Authors: Yilin Zhuang, Hayk Khachatryan, William Lester, Younghyeon Jeon
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Zhuang, Y. Water Resources Regional Specialized Agent, UF/IFAS Extension, Florida, 32703
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Khachatryan, H. State Specialist and Professor, UF/IFAS, Florida, 32703
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Lester, W. Extension Agent, UF/IFAS Extension, Florida, 34604
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Jeon, Y. Postdoctoral Researcher, UF/IFAS, Florida, 32703