Apply rule to golf courses, too

I support the legislation proposed by state Sen. Chris Marr to eliminate phosphate from lawn fertilizer. But I object to the exemption for golf courses contained in this legislation.

The arguments for the elimination of phosphate in fertilizer for home lawns (its runoff contributing to algae growth in waterways, and the assertion that grass will grow green and healthy without the addition of additional phosphate) apply equally, if not more, to golf courses. Golf courses are especially important as a source of pollution because of the large area being fertilized and because many of them (Hangman Valley and Qualchan for example) are located alongside streams into which the runoff can flow directly.

The Legislature should stand up to the golf course lobby and strike this special interest exemption.

John Douglas

Spokane