Phosphorus Action Plan
Phosphorus (P) is a non-replaceable, non-renewable mineral resource that is essential to many forms of life, and to the agriculture sector for food security. There is no substitute for it and it’s important for supporting a healthy ecosystem.
When there are excessive amounts of phosphorus in aquatic environments, however, it can increase algal growth, reduce water clarity, create odours, and reduce the quality of water for drinking and recreation. In a worst-case scenario, excess phosphorus can result in harmful algal blooms that are toxic to people, pets and livestock.
The purpose of the Phosphorus Action Plan is to provide guidance to everyone in the Shuswap on actions they can take to protect water quality by reducing the amount of phosphorus being released into the watershed. Additionally, the Plan summarizes the regulatory framework for P, because the use of phosphorus and the discharge of phosphorus-rich effluents is regulated in many ways. The provincial government has the most specific regulations to directly manage P and other nutrients, as well as regulating agriculture and resource management (e.g., forestry) activities in the watershed.
We are all stewards of the watershed, and we can all play a part in protecting our water quality whether we are:
This Plan is for all of us!
The Phosphorus Action Plan was featured in a SalmonSafe BC webinar in February 2023.
Take a look!
Would you like to learn more?
Check out this mini-report published by the Shuswap Watershed Council (2020): Understanding Nutrients and Water Quality in the Shuswap River and Salmon River.
Top Banner Photo: Darren Robinson, Shuswap Tourism
