The federal government is hearing from southwest Floridians about proposed tougher standards for water quality for the state.

The Environmental Protection Agency took statements from people about nutrient run-off into waterways.   The agency and many believe those nutrients, from fertilizer in part, cause algae blooms and kill fish.   Both have been problems in southwest Fla. in recent years.

Agricultural and business interests generally oppose tougher standards.  They say it will hurt the economy, and it's not fair for farmers to take all the blame for polluted waters.

The EPA holds hearings in Tampa and Jacksonville later this week, and will issue its final standards later this year.