MADISON, Wis. -- The state Senate on Tuesday passed a bill to restrict the sale and use of phosphorous fertilizers statewide.

The bill was offered to help keep phosphorous out of lake and stream water, which can cause algae and water-quality issues.

"Wisconsin has over 15,000 lakes, and it's a prime economic and natural resource for our state. Phosphorus is the No. 1 chemical that contributes to the degradation of our water quality in Wisconsin," said Sen. Mark Miller, D-Monona.

The bill, which passed on a bipartisan vote, exempts the fertilizer use on agricultural land, new lawn growth and land proven to be deficient in phosphorous, WISC-TV reported.

The legislation also prohibits retailers from displaying phosphorus fertilizers in their stores, but they can post signs that say they carry it.