Pesticide Broadcast (Newsletter)

Stephen J. Toth, Jr., Pest Management Information Specialist
Wayne G. Buhler, Pesticide Education Specialist

Volume 16, Number 4, June 16, 2006

NCDA&CS Merging Pesticide-related Units into One Division

The North Carolina Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services (NCDA&CS) is merging its two units that regulate pesticides and pest control companies, Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler announced June 15, 2006.

The Department’s Pesticide Section will join the Structural Pest Control Division to become the Structural Pest Control and Pesticides Division. Employees have begun the merger, which will be official July 1. The Pesticide Section previously was part of the Food and Drug Protection Division.

The new division will be responsible for protecting public health and the environment by ensuring that commercial and non-commercial pesticide applicators comply with state pesticide laws and regulations. It will also make sure companies that treat houses, schools and other buildings for pests operate safely and fairly.

Combining the two programs into one division, which is the arrangement in many states, will help them function more efficiently, Troxler said. "It just makes sense to have these programs together. We can make both programs stronger, which will benefit the public," he said.

No jobs will be lost as a result of the merger. Jim Burnette Jr., administrator of the Pesticide Section, is overseeing the merger as acting director. Carl Falco, longtime director of the Structural Pest Control Division, retired June 1 after 30 years of state service.

The new division will have about 75 employees across the state. Its administrative offices will be located in the Ballentine Building on Blue Ridge Road in Raleigh. The public can call (919) 733-6100 for structural pest control matters and (919) 733-3556 for other pesticide-related issues.

Source: North Carolina Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services News Release, June 15, 2006

Recommendations for the use of chemicals are included in this publication as a covenience to the reader. The use of brand names and any mention or listing of commercial products or services in this publication does not imply endorsement by the North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service nor discrimination against similar products or services not mentioned. Individuals who use chemicals are responsible for ensuring that the intended use complies with current regulations and conforms to the product label. Be sure to obtain current information about usage and examine a current product label before applying any chemical. For assistance, contact an agent of the North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service in your county.

Employment and program opportunities are offered to all people regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, age or disability. North Carolina State University, North Carolina A&T State University, U.S. Department of Agriculture, and local governments cooperating.

Last modified on June 16, 2006 by Stephen J. Toth, Jr.