More limits for three organophosphate pesticides

The EPA announced plans to place additional limitations on the use of three organophosphate pesticides -- chlorpyrifos, diazinon and malathion -- to protect endangered and threatened salmon and steelhead in California, Idaho, Oregon and Washington. Anticipated changes to product labels include the addition of pesticide buffer zones; application limitations based on wind speed, soil moisture and weather conditions; and fish mortality incident reporting requirements. New, enforceable labels could be available as early as the 2010 spring growing season. EPA is requesting the manufacturers to voluntarily adopt the new limitations on labeling for these pesticides. If the manufacturers decline this request, EPA will pursue regulatory action to impose the limitations.