What do legal guidelines governing fertilizer use and application primarily ensure?

Legal guidelines governing fertilizer use and application primarily ensure the protection of water quality because improper application of fertilizers can lead to runoff that carries excess nutrients, particularly nitrogen and phosphorus, into local water bodies. This process can cause water pollution, leading to problems such as algal blooms, which deplete oxygen in water and harm aquatic life. By establishing regulations and best practices for fertilizer application, these guidelines aim to minimize the risk of nutrient runoff and safeguard water resources, thereby promoting both environmental health and public safety.

While safe usage of pesticides, reduction of soil erosion, and maximization of crop yields are important considerations in agriculture, the specific focus of fertilizer regulations is often centered around their impact on water quality, making it a primary concern for regulatory bodies and environmental stewardship.