In a memo distributed on May 8, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced the re-opening of the comment period on the ecological risk assessment for the pyrethroid chemicals; comments must be received by July 7, 2017.

EPA is re-opening the comment period in response to a number of extension requests received from various stakeholders who have cited reasons including the difficulty of commenting due to the length, quantity, and complexity of the assessments for these particular chemicals, in addition to resource and time constraints.

Western Growers encourages members to submit comments. Your input will provide helpful information to address concerns that the EPA’s preliminary ecological risk assessment for this group of pesticides does not take into account the totality of relevant scientific data, and fails to fully recognize the critical role pyrethroids play in the success of your industry and business. Your comments should focus on the importance of pyrethroids to your toolbox — including efficacy, economy, resistance management, and lack of effective alternatives. This information will help EPA understand the critical nature of this class of chemistry to assess the benefits.

Growers can find language for comments and submit comments directly to the EPA by visiting the Pyrethrioid Working Group’s Action Center.

For questions, contact Hank Giclas at (949) 885-2205.