The pathway to a summer without toxic algae on Lake Erie remains elusive, but experts are optimistic about several programs designed to reduce algae-feeding phosphorus runoff into the lake.

 

One program provides $17.5 million to farmers in the lake's western basin. It supports pollution-control efforts such as planting cover crops, creating buffer strips of trees and prairie grasses, and installing drainage-control structures.

 

The fund was intended to last for five years, but has become so popular that it could be consumed in one.

 

More than 350 farmers from Ohio, Michigan, and Indiana have applied for funds from the Regional Conservation Partnership Program, according to Adam Rissien, director of agriculture and water policy for the Ohio Environmental Council.

 

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