Pesticide Broadcast (Newsletter)

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

Volume 13, Number 4, July 14, 2003

Comprehensive Review of Widely-Used Insecticide Carbaryl Completed

On June 30, EPA completed a thorough assessment of the pesticide carbaryl, one of the most widely-used insecticides in agriculture. Stemming from the Agency's evaluation, EPA is requiring new measures to ensure protection for homeowners, agricultural workers and the environment. EPA's actions will reduce potential exposures of residential users and children to this pesticide by eliminating most pet care and aerosol products, as well as liquid lawn care applications. Exposures to people who apply carbaryl in agriculture and those who enter treated areas will be reduced in the following ways: canceling some uses and application methods; reducing maximum application rates; eliminating aerial application for certain crops; requiring more personal protective equipment and engineering controls; and extending restricted entry intervals for many crops. Carbaryl can pose risks to honey bees, aquatic invertebrates and other aquatic animals. No concerns were identified related to dietary exposure to residues of carbaryl. EPA will also conduct a cumulative risk assessment for carbamate pesticides, and when this is completed, the Agency will evaluate whether further risk mitigation may be needed for carbaryl. A Federal Register notice announcing the beginning of a public comment period on the decisions contained in this action will be published shortly. The "Interim Re-registration Eligibility Decision" for carbaryl, and related documents including EPA risk assessments and a summary of this decision, will be available at: http://www.epa.gov/pesticides/reregistration/carbaryl/ .

Source: EPA Pesticide Program Update, U. S. Environmental Protection Agency's Office of Pesticide Programs, July 8, 2003

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 July 14, 2003 by Stephen J. Toth, Jr.