Pesticide Broadcast (Newsletter)

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

Volume 15, Number 5, November 21, 2005

EPA Finalizes Approach to Field Implementation of Endangered Species Protection Program

Today, EPA published in the Federal Register (FR) a notice that outlines the Agency's approach to field implementation of its Endangered Species Protection Program (ESPP). The notice also responds to comments received from the public in response to the Agency's December 2002, FR notice proposing its approach to field implementation.

The goal of the ESPP is to carry out responsibilities under the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA) in compliance with the Endangered Species Act (ESA) by providing appropriate protection to listed species and their designated critical habitats from potential harm due to pesticide use, while at the same time not placing unnecessary burden on the agriculture community and other pesticide users. EPA will implement its program through pesticide label statements that refer users to Endangered Species Protection Bulletins (Bulletins), as appropriate, when geographically specific use limitations are necessary to protect federally listed species or their designated critical habitat. Bulletins will generally include a map of the county or parish to which it applies, a description of the species being protected, a list of the pesticides of concern and their use limitations. These use limitations will be enforceable under the misuse provisions of FIFRA. Once pesticide labels with such labeling appear in the marketplace, Bulletins will be available via the EPA's Website or via a toll free number; both of which will be identified on the pesticide label.

The Federal Register Notice can be found at: http://www.epa.gov/fedrgstr/EPA-PEST/2005/November/Day-02/p21838.htm. For additional information on the technical, scientific or risk assessment aspects of the program, contact Arty Williams at 703-305-7695 or williams.arty@epa.gov. If you have questions about field implementation of the ESPP, please contact Mary Powell at 703 305-7384 or powell.mary@epa.gov.

Source: U. S. EPA, Office of Pesticide Programs, EPA Pesticide Program Updates, November 2, 2005

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 November 21, 2005 by Stephen J. Toth, Jr.