5. Conclusions
In our study of a coastal communitywith historic and ongoing experiencewith
Florida red tides, regulations to decrease individual fertilizer
useswere found to be poorly understood by a group of participantswho
were both highly educated and concerned about Florida red tides. Given
these results, the overall effectiveness of local fertilizer ordinances may
be compromised.Why should this be the case?
Policy effectiveness depends not only upon the physical relationship
between nutrient releases and the occurrence of Florida red tides, but
also on human compliance with the policies. Scientific understanding
about the connections between anthropogenic releases of nutrients
into coastal and marine environments and the occurrence of Florida
red tides remains unresolved. Homeownersmust interpret complex scientific
results and stakeholder claims in the context of this evolving policy
as they decide upon actions that may affect nutrient fluxes. Public
authorities have asserted that the physical relationships are deterministic,
but observations of the occurrence and potency of Florida red tides
still appear uncertain to the average citizen. Consequently, the public
may be confused about the rationales for fertilizer ordinances.