Soil Fumigant Regulations, continued...

In a previous post on soil fumigants, I mentioned the new changes and mitigations that are being proposed by the EPA.

After speaking with a representative at Reddick, he informed me that these changes will not take place until late 2010 or 2011. The delay is due to the changing of the fumigant labels. However, please read your fumigant label before your treat your field. For example, Midas (iodomethane or methyl iodide) has major restrictions on its label already. One of these restrictions is:

"Do not apply within 1/4 mile of any occupied sensitive site such as schools, daycare facilities, nursing homes, hospitals, prisons and playgrounds".

This may have an impact on many farms here in WNC where our fields are very close to our neighbors. If you fall into this category, you can still apply Telone or methyl bromide. These fumigants have buffer zones, thought not as wide as with Midas. Please read and follow the label- it is the law! You can find pesticide labels on the Crop Data Management Systems, Inc website.

The EPA is still taking comments, so please let your voice be heard. Contact the EPA soon!

If you have any questions about fumigants, please contact your local supplier or call your local cooperative extension office.