Updated Insecticide Strategy for Enhanced Pesticide Safety
New draft Insecticide Strategy, released by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), sets out proposed guidelines for enhanced protection of endangered species against the potential impacts of insecticides. In efforts to strengthen environmental safeguards and promote responsible pesticide use, the draft presents potential protective measures to address potential impacts on over 850 species listed by the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service (FWS).
A Forward-Thinking Approach to Insecticide Use
The draft strategy is part of an ongoing initiative by the EPA to develop a more effective approach that meets the obligations under the Endangered Species Act (ESA). Focusing on agricultural practices, the draft proposes early protective measures in the pesticide review process. The strategy is designed to be efficient, benefitting multi-chemical, multi-species ecosystems, particularly in the lower 48 states where an estimated 34 million pounds of insecticides are applied annually.
Adapting Lessons from the Herbicide Strategy
Informed by previous experiences with the draft herbicide strategy, the new insecticide strategy offers a variety of mitigation options for farmers and pesticide applicators. Emphasis is on those implementing measures to reduce pesticide runoff and those situated in areas with less potential for runoff, like flat lands or regions with less rain. To ensure effective pesticide safety, these measures also include conservation practices recommended by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Resources Conservation Service and state or private stewardship measures.
| Potential Insecticide Impacts Considered |
|---|
| Species’ habitats |
| Needs for species’ reproduction |
| Potential environmental dispersal of the pesticide |
| Possible impacts if pesticides reach species |
Paving the Way for Streamlined Consultations
Once finalized, the insecticide strategy will speed up future ESA consultations with FWS, identifying potential impacts of insecticides on listed species before EPA completes the lengthy ESA consultation process. This approach will significantly reduce the need for pesticide restrictions in scenarios that don’t benefit species, minimizing uncertainties for farmers and other pesticide users.
Open for Public Comment
The draft Insecticide Strategy Framework and supporting documentation is open for public comment for 60 days. Unveiling this strategy marks a significant breakthrough in the Biden-Harris Administration’s commitment to safeguarding endangered species and raising the bar for pesticide safety.
To learn more about EPA’s pesticide program and its efforts to protect endangered species, visit their website here.
Key Takeaway for Pesticide Applicator
As a pesticide applicator, this shift in the EPA’s insecticide strategy underscores the importance of pesticide safety. By streamlining consultations, refining prohibitions, and offering mitigation options, the EPA is not only ensuring the protection of endangered species but also offering more clarity and certainty for pesticide users. This is a valuable opportunity to engage with the draft, understand the proposed changes, and voice any concerns in the public comment period.
