"Strong" fertilizer ordinances with summer blackout periods are literally the least local governments can do to keep excess nutrients out of troubled waterways, and some 130 counties and municipalities across Florida have taken this key step.

But when the Florida Legislature reconvenes in January, lawmakers may have a flawed new study at their fingertips showing these bans aren't effective — and they may use it to "ban the bans," preempting local attempts to regulate summertime fertilizer use.

For water bodies already plagued by excess nutrients, this could be a disaster.

Our latest "Deep Dive" takes a look at the history, the problems with existing studies and the potential damage from any attempt to "ban the bans."

This is shaping up to be a major fight in 2024 — and we've got you covered so you can be informed and throw a few rhetorical punches yourself.