[Pollinator] EPA response to my letter about neonicotinoids

[David Inouye]

Hi Dr. Inouye,

Thank you for writing the Environmental Protection Agency’s pesticides 
program.

  EPA is taking the next step in its regulatory review of neonicotinoid 
pesticides -- a group of insecticides used on a wide variety of crops, 
turf, ornamentals, pets (for flea treatment), and other residential and 
commercial indoor and outdoor uses. The agency’s proposed interim 
decisions for acetamiprid, clothianidin, dinotefuran, imidacloprid, and 
thiamethoxam contain new measures to reduce potential ecological risks, 
particularly to pollinators, and protect public health.

  EPA is proposing:

  * management measures to help keep pesticides on the intended target
    and reduce the amount used on crops associated with potential
    ecological risks;
  * requiring the use of additional personal protective equipment to
    address potential occupational risks;
  * restrictions on when pesticides can be applied to blooming crops in
    order to limit exposure to bees;
  * language on the label that advises homeowners not to use
    neonicotinoid products; and
  * cancelling spray uses of imidacloprid on residential turf under the
    Food Quality Protection Act (FQPA) due to health concerns.

  Additionally, the agency is working with industry on developing and 
implementing stewardship and best management practices.

  Upon publication of the Federal Register notice, the agency invites 
comments on the proposed decisions in the following dockets until April 
3, 2020. After reviewing public input, the agency will issue final 
interim decisions. Go to 
https://www.regulations.gov/document?D=EPA-HQ-OPP-2011-0581-0357to 
review the materials and submit your comment.

More information available on EPA’s proposed interim 
decisions<https://www.epa.gov/pollinator-protection/epa-actions-protect-pollinators> for 
neonicotinoids.

Best regards,

Office of Pesticide Programs

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency


-- 
Dr. David W. Inouye
Professor Emeritus
Department of Biology
University of Maryland

Principal Investigator
Rocky Mountain Biological Laboratory

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