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Changes proposed for pesticide approval in Endangered Species Act

The Environmental Protection Agency has updated the Endangered Species Act workplan with a goal to bring long-term certainty for pesticide users. EPA Ag Advisor Rod Snyder tells Brownfield the agency is evaluating conservation practices farmers can implement alongside pesticide applications to prevent off-target movement.

“What are some of the things we could build into the label to ensure the product remains available to farmers, but can help prevent jeopardy to species that are near the farm field?”

Snyder says there’s not enough EPA staff for timely pesticide reviews, but he’s optimistic Congress will change that with the help of $10 million coming through the 2023 budget proposal.

“We’re interested, from a resources perspective, the agency has the funding it needs to get the job done.”

Public comments will be taken on the ESA workplan through January 30.