Impact of Runoff Water Quality on Future Nursery Crop

changes in the 1980s. Droughts and water regulations required increased use of lowvolume irrigation, severe freezes promoted the use of fabric covers for cold protection, and governmental immigration reform necessitated re-evaluation of personnel resources. Production practices were required that used smaller quantities of fertilizer and pesticides. Additional restrictions limited the disposal of by-products and the use of inputs such as water, which once was taken for granted as an unlimited resource. For the nursery industry to remain profitable, proactive thinking and a futuristic vision must be the focus of the 1990s. No one knows what future restrictions will be imposed, but environmental issues will receive the greatest attention, with water quality and quantity issues as top priorities. Those production practices having an impact on the environment must be identified and modified when needed, but progress can be achieved only by open-minded individuals with a willingness to change.