February 2005 Pesticide Briefs

THE LOCAL SCENE

(1)  CALENDAR OF EVENTS IN EXTENSION

(2)  SOYBEAN RUST INFO

(3)  KENT COUNTY CROP MASTERS SERIES - UPCOMING WORKSHOPS
(4)  DELAWARE STATE UNIVERSITY WATER TESTING PROGRAM

THE NATIONAL SCENE

PESTICIDE REGISTRATIONS:

(5)  N-METHYL CARBAMATES (CARBARYL) CUMULATIVE RISK ASSESSMENT

(6)  FUSILADE RISK ASSESSMENT

(7)  LINDANE USES DELETED

(8)  CHLORFENAPYR TOLERANCES ESTABLISHED

(9)  D-LIMONENE REREGISTRATION ELIGIBILITY DECISION

(10) 2,4-D REVISED RISK ASSESSMENTS

(11) DISULFOTON (DI-SYSTON 15G) CERTAIN USES TERMINATED

(12) PENTACHOLOROPHENOL WOOD PRESERVATIVE PRODUCTS

EPA ACTIONS

(13) GEORGIA CATTLE COMPANY, OWNER & FARM MANAGER PLEAD GUILTY

(14) MOSQUITO MISTING SYSTEMS QUESTIONED

REGIONAL CONFERENCE

(15) NORTHEAST REGIONAL COMMUNITY AND URBAN IPM CONFERENCE

GRANT ANNOUNCED

(16) PEST MANAGEMENT ALTERNATIVES PROGRAM

RESOURCES

(17) MANAGEMENT CONSIDERATIONS FOR PESTICIDE MIXER/LOADERS

(18) NEW PUBS

(19) REVISED GUIDE TO DRUG, VACCINE, PESTICIDE USE IN AQUACULTURE
(20)  EPA LAUNCHES NEW SPANISH WEB SITE
********************************************************************************************

(1)  CALENDAR OF EVENTS IN EXTENSION

For a calendar of educational opportunities for Delaware farmers, landowners, agricultural industry personnel, and horticultural businesses, go to:

http://ag.udel.edu/extension/kent/News/Jan2005wkshps/Ag%20Calendar%20of%20EventsJan-Mar%2005.pdf

(2)  SOYBEAN RUST INFO

Soybean Rust may hit Delaware this year!  To get the latest information, go to Bob Mulrooney & Nancy Gregory’s web site at:  http://ag.udel.edu/extension/Information/pdc/PDCsoybeanrust.htm               

At this site you’ll find links to photos of SBR, lists of registered SBR fungicides including Section 18's and products that have not yet been labeled for SBR.  The Plant Diagnostic Clinic at the University of Delaware can help you identify SBR.  Contact Bob or Nancy at 302-831-1390.  The Clinic accepts plant samples showing signs or symptoms of disease. The Clinic is housed in the Department of Plant and Soil Sciences at the University of Delaware in Newark.  Plant submission guidelines are given at:  http://ag.udel.edu/extension/information/pdc/PDCsubmissionguidelines.htm

For a list of SBR educational programs, go to:

http://ag.udel.edu/extension/information/pdc/SBRmeetings.htm

(3)  KENT COUNTY CROP MASTERS SERIES - UPCOMING WORKSHOPS
Several workshops will be held in February & March at the University of Delaware, Kent Co. Extension Office, Paradee Center, Rt. 113 S. next to DelDOT.  Nutrient management and/or pesticide recertification credits will be available for most sessions.  CCA credits will also be available for each session.  Register by calling (302) 730-4000.  Dinner or lunch will be provided (depending on the time for the workshop).

Crop Masters workshops will explore specific crop related topics in depth. Research and information will be presented and extension specialists and other experts will be on hand to lead discussions. A description of each workshop follows.

February 21 6-9 PM - Advanced Plant Nutrition and Plant Growth Regulation
Dinner will be provided. *** 3 nutrient management credits will be given*** CCA credits
The focus of this workshop will be on the tools or options available to growers through soil fertility management, plant nutrition, or the use of growth promoters to achieve the highest yields. Topics will include: starter fertilizers, pop up fertilizers, in-furrow micronutrient/growth promoter treatments, timed foliar applications of nutrients; fungicides/insecticides as growth promoters; later growth stage fertilization in small grains; early reproductive stage fertilizer applications to soybeans; "spoon feeding" field crops and vegetables through fertigation; "root growth" enhancers, and more. Evaluating the economics of treatments will also be discussed - is it worth the extra money for the yield gains seen.

February 28 9AM-Noon - Pest Wars: Understanding How & Why Disease Epidemics, Insect Outbreaks, & New Weed infestations occur
Lunch will be provided ***3 pesticide credits will be given*** CCA credits
In this session, we will present studies of recent epidemics or outbreaks in DE to educate growers and advisors about pest dynamics, biology, and the emergence of new pests. We will also use these examples to illustrate how control measures are developed and tested. Also presented will be some hypotheticals with pests that may be on the horizon such as soybean rust.

March 7 6-9 PM Advanced soil fertility and soil improvement
***3 nutrient management credits*** CCA Credits
Topics will include soil variability and managing soil variability; understanding soil pH and its effects; soil health; increasing soil organic matter; improving poor soils; effective use of animal manures; the importance of crop rotations from soil health and nutrient management perspectives; effects of different rotations and cropping schemes on soil productivity; long term soil quality improvement, efficient use of fertilizers; soil physical and chemical properties and their effects on plants; and more. Discussions will be in a round table format.

March 14 6-9 PM Information management and field records - Gathering and Utilizing Crop Information and Field Record Keeping Systems
***3 nutrient management credits*** CCA Credits
This session will focus on the types of information that is being collected in crop production, information collection and analysis technologies, and how information is then used to make decisions on future crop production. We will feature farmers who do their own collection/analysis, consultants that offer these services, individual farm based systems, data pooling systems, etc. Record keeping and analysis software programs will be demonstrated and commented on.

March 21 6-9 PM Understanding and managing crop stress
***3 nutrient management credits*** CCA Credits
This session will focus on stress factors and their effects on plants. Included will be drought stress, heat stress, cold stress, biotic stresses (disease, insect), pest-stress interactions, flooding/waterlogging, damage (such as hail, animal feeding) and so forth. There would also be an emphasis on the most practical and effective ways to manage crop stress (irrigation management, soil improvement, variety selection, environment modification, pest management, etc.). Another topic will be the development of crop varieties to withstand stresses. The session will be in a roundtable discussion format with concepts and examples presented, comments from the expertise present, and then questions and answers.

For more information, contact:  Gordon C. Johnson, Extension Agent and Agriculture Program Leader, University of Delaware Cooperative Extension, 69 Transportation Circle
Dover, DE 19901; Phone (302) 730-4000; Fax (302) 735-8130; email: gcjohn@udel.edu

(4)  DELAWARE STATE UNIVERSITY WATER TESTING PROGRAM

Drinking water can be contaminated with many things: 

Human & animal waste

Pesticides

Fertilizer

Fuel oil

Industrial solvents

The type, source and level of contamination all depend on the well’s location and its condition.  If you are interested in learning more about safe drinking water, Delaware State University has a new program to test your well water.  Contact Dennis McIntosh at 302-857-6456 or dmcintosh@desu.edu  to schedule an appointment.

(5)  N-METHYL CARBAMATES (CARBARYL):  CUMULATIVE RISK ASSESSMENT ISSUES

This month the FIFRA Scientific Advisory Panel will meet to consider issues associated with the N-methyl carbamates (carbaryl) risk assessment.  The Panel will review hazard assessment and pharmacokinetic/ pharmacodynamic modeling.  They will review ground water models and drinking water exposure assessment and the integration of hazard and exposure information.  The meeting agendas and relevant documents are available at:  http://www.epa.gov/scipoly/sap/#feb

The meetings are open to the public and the public may submit oral or written comments.  For details, go to:

http://www.epa.gov/fedrgstr/EPA-MEETINGS/2005/January/Day-06/m263.htm

Any communication should include the docket ID number - OPP-2004-0405 - in the subject line on the first page of the inquiry.

(6)  FUSILADE RISK ASSESSMENT

EPA's risk assessment and related technical support documents for the pesticide fluazifop-P-butyl (Fusilade) are available.  For details, go to: http://www.epa.gov/fedrgstr/EPA-PEST/2005/January/Day-26/p1028.htm
Fluazifop-P-butyl is a selective, post-emergent herbicide registered for the control of annual and perennial grass weeds. EPA is developing a tolerance reassessment decision (TRED) for fluazifop-P-butyl through a modified, 4-Phase public participation process. Comments, identified by docket identification (ID) number OPP- 2004-0347, must be received on or before March 28, 2005.

Contact: Cathryn O'Connell, Special Review and Reregistration Division (7508C), Office of Pesticide Programs, Environmental Protection Agency, 1200 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW., Washington, DC 20460-0001; telephone number: (703) 308-0136; fax number: (703) 308-8041; e-mail address: oconnell.cathryn@epa.gov. *

(7)  LINDANE USES DELETED

EPA is issuing a notice of receipt of request by AGSCO Inc.in order for them to delete certain uses of Lindane ST 40:  broccoli, brussels sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, and radish.  Lindane ST 40 is an insecticidal seed treatment for several crops.  For details on this action, go to:

http://www.epa.gov/fedrgstr/EPA-PEST/2005/January/Day-26/p1370.htm
The deletions are effective on February 25, 2005, unless EPA receives a written withdrawal request on or before February 25, 2005. EPA will consider withdrawal requests postmarked no later than February 25, 2005. Users of these products who desire continued use on crops or sites being deleted should contact the applicable registrant on or before February 25, 2005.  EPA has established a docket for this action under Docket identification OPP-2002-0202.
Contact: Mark T. Howard, Special Review and Reregistration Division (7508C), telephone number: (703) 308-8172; e-mail address: howard.markt@epa.gov.

(8)  CHLORFENAPYR TOLERANCES ESTABLISHED

/horde/util/go.php?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.epa.gov%2Ffedrgstr%2FEPA-PEST%2F2005%2FJanuary%2FDay-26%2Fp1439.htm&Horde=57360fa31f9a9bBASF has requested a tolerance for residues of the insecticide chlorfenapyr in or on all foods except fruiting vegetables.  For details, go to:

http://www.epa.gov/fedrgstr/EPA-PEST/2005/January/Day-26/p1439.htm . 

This regulation is effective January 26, 2005. Objections and requests for hearings must be received on or before March 28, 2005. EPA has established a docket for this action under Docket identification (ID) number OPP-2004-0362.

Contact: Ann Sibold, Registration Division (7505C), telephone number: 703 305-6502; e-mail address: sibold.ann@epa.gov.

(9)  D-LIMONENE REREGISTRATION ELIGIBILITY DECISION

EPA has announced the availability of the Reregistration Eligibility Decision (RED) for the insecticide D-Limonene (orange oil extract).  For details, go to:

http://www.epa.gov/fedrgstr/EPA-PEST/2005/January/Day-19/p1026.htm
Comments, identified by docket ID number OPP-2004-0335, must be received on or before March 21, 2005. The FFDCA. review is to be completed by August 3, 2006.
Contact: Mark Perry, Special Review and Reregistration Division (7508C), telephone number: (703) 308-8024; fax number: (703) 308-7070; e-mail address: perry.mark@epa.gov.

(10)  2,4-D REVISED RISK ASSESSMENTS

A closure call with EPA and registrants was recently held. All registered uses of the phenoxy herbicide, 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D) will be retained and new mitigation measures are minimal. Chemical resistant gloves and eye protection will be required for applicators using amine salt formulations and best application practices for avoiding spray drift will be required.

EPA's revised risk assessments for 2,4-D are available.  For details, go to:

http://www.epa.gov/fedrgstr/EPA-PEST/2005/January/Day-12/p505.htm
The public is encouraged to suggest risk management ideas or proposals to address the risks identified. EPA is developing a Reregistration Eligibility Decision (RED) for 2,4-D through the full, 6-Phase public participation process that the Agency uses to involve the public in developing pesticide reregistration and tolerance reassessment decisions.  Comments, identified by docket identification (ID) number OPP-2004-0167, must be received on or before March 14, 2005.
Contact: Katie Hall, Special Review and Reregistration Division (7508C), telephone number: (703) 308-0166; fax number: (703) 308-8041; e-mail address: hall.katie@epa.gov.

The widely used phenoxy herbicide 2,4-D helps to control a variety of broadleaf weeds in agricultural, forestry, aquatic, and residential/turf settings. EPA is providing an opportunity for interested parties to provide risk management proposals or otherwise comment on risk management for 2,4-D, considering the preliminary risk reduction options detailed in the Agency's "2,4-D Reregistration; Preliminary Risk Mitigation Proposals." Such comments and proposals should further discuss ways to manage 2,4-D's potential drinking water, residential (swimmer), occupational, and ecological risks
resulting from its aquatic and terrestrial use.

Drinking water risk could potentially be of concern from direct application of 2,4-D to water for aquatic weed control. The Agency has proposed the following measures to mitigate this concern: application of 2,4-D to surface sources of drinking water will be limited to local, state and federal agencies and cooperating water user organizations; applicators must be properly licensed; and drinking water use restrictions must be communicated to the affected community. Under the proposed mitigation, application amounts and rates would be limited, and posting treated areas would be required. Drinking water use restrictions would remain until it can be demonstrated that the 2,4-D concentration in the water is less than 70 parts per billion (ppb), the Agency's Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) enforced under the Safe Drinking Water Act.

Potential residential risks to swimmers were identified when water bodies are treated with 2,4-D BEE. To mitigate this risk, the Agency has proposed a maximum concentration for 2,4-D BEE products, and that notification/posting requirements be added, to prohibit swimming in treated water for at least 24 hours after application.

Occupational risks were identified for workers handling wettable powder formulations of 2,4-D. Engineering controls (water soluble packaging) are being proposed to reduce exposure and mitigate these potential risks.

Ecological risks to non-target plants, animals, and birds have been associated with terrestrial use of 2,4-D. In addition, use of 2,4-D for aquatic weed control presents potential risks to aquatic organisms and plants. Proposed mitigation includes limiting maximum application rates to the application rates typically used. Additional suggestions are requested.

(11)  DISULFOTON (DI-SYSTON 15G) CERTAIN USES TERMINATED

EPA has received a request from Bayer CropSciences to amend the product registration for DiSyston 15G to terminate most agricultural uses.  For details, go to:  http://www.epa.gov/fedrgstr/EPA-PEST/2004/December/Day-15/p27366.htm
In a letter dated September 30, 2004, Bayer CropSciences requested that EPA cancel all agricultural uses of DiSyston 15G except for use on Fraser firs in North Carolina and coffee trees in Puerto Rico where this product will be applied using a closed-system hand applicator. In an earlier letter dated May 20, 2004, Bayer CropSciences indicated that they would voluntarily cancel these uses rather than develop the necessary exposure monitoring data specified in the Interim Reregistration Eligibility Decision (IRED). DiSyston 15G (EPA Reg. Nos. 3125-172 and 264-723), the 15% granular formulation of disulfoton, is currently registered for use on beans, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, coffee trees, cotton, peanuts, peppers, radish grown for seed, clover grown for seed, and Christmas trees.  These uses were determined to be eligible for reregistration in the Agency's 2002 IRED for disulfoton provided that certain conditions were met, including implementation of closed systems and development of confirmatory exposure monitoring data. Because disulfoton is an organophosphate (OP), the final reregistration eligiblity decision is pending consideration of the OP cumulative risk assessment.

Comments, identified by docket ID number OPP-2004-0340, must be received on or before June 13, 2005.
Contact: Christina Scheltema, Special Review and Reregistration Division (7508C), Office of Pesticide Programs, (703) 308-2201; fax (703) 308-8005; e-mail address: scheltema.christina@epa.gov

(12)  PENTACHOLOROPHENOL WOOD PRESERVATIVE PRODUCTS

EPA is issuing a notice of receipt of requests by registrants of pesticide products containing Pentachlorophenol to cancel certain Pentacholorophenol wood preservative products, and/or amend registrations to terminate certain uses of Pentachlorophenol products. For details, go to:

http://www.epa.gov/fedrgstr/EPA-PEST/2005/January/Day-06/p261.htm
Two registrants, KMG Chemicals, Inc. and Vulcan Chemicals, are requesting these actions effective immediately. KMG Chemicals, Inc., is requesting that registrations for two of its products, Pentacon 40 and Penwar, be cancelled. Vulcan Chemicals is requesting amendments to registrations to terminate spray uses for two of its products (vulcan GLAZD Penta and Vulcan Premium Four Pound [PCP-2] Concentrate).  KMG  Chemicals, Inc. has asked for no provision for existing stocks. Vulcan Chemicals has asked to be allowed to sell and distribute existing stocks for a period of 18 months after the issuance of the cancellation order terminating spray uses of its products.  Both registrants waived the 180-day comment period.  EPA intends to issue cancellation orders granting these requests to cancel certain products, and/or to amend registrations to terminate certain uses.

Contact: Heather Garvie, Office of Pesticide Programs (7510C), Antimicrobials
Division telephone number: (703) 308-0034; e-mail: garvie.heather@epa.gov.

(13)  GEORGIA CATTLE COMPANY, OWNER AND FARM MANAGER PLEAD GUILTY TO CAUSING BIRD KILL
Kahn Cattle Company of Bartow County, Georgia; Roger F. Kahn, owner of Kahn Cattle Co.; and Glen M. Bramlett, farm manager of the company, all pleaded guilty on Jan. 21 in U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Georgia in Rome, Ga., to unlawfully killing approximately 3,300 migratory birds in violation of the Migratory Bird Treaty Act.
In addition, Kahn Cattle Company pleaded guilty to illegally disposing of hazardous waste in violation of the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act.

On or about Jan. 20, 2003, Kahn and Bramlett spread corn laced with a chemical known as Warbex around a pond on property owned by Kahn Cattle Company. The tainted corn was spread in order to kill nuisance birds. Warbex is a topical preparation that is applied to cattle to control insect pests. It contains Famphur, which is a highly toxic substance that is not meant for ingestion. As a result of this act, federal and state agents ultimately collected 3,326 birds, including a great horned owl, red-tailed hawks, mourning doves, Canada geese, a mallard duck, a cardinal, blue jays, red-winged blackbirds, a brown thrasher, grackles, crows and cowbirds. The case was investigated by the Atlanta Office of EPA's Criminal Investigation Division and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service with support from the Georgia Department of Natural Resources. It is being prosecuted by the U.S. attorney's office in Atlanta.

(14)  MOSQUITO MISTING SYSTEMS QUESTIONED
EPA has formed an internal workgroup to examine mosquito misting systems.  Recent public concern over West Nile Virus has caused an increase in marketing of automated spraying systems installed in and around residential homes and property.  These systems apply pesticides at timed intervals.  This unmonitored application contributes to a greater potential for pesticide resistance, exposure, and subsequent harm to unprotected people, pets, wildlife and the environment.  The States FIFRA Issues and Evaluation Group (SFIREG) is asking EPA to prohibit the use of pesticides in automated misting systems in residential areas, including schools and daycares for the following reasons:

• Uncertified Applicators - The misting systems are often marketed and installed by companies whose employees have no experience or knowledge of pesticides or proper application.  Many are not required to obtain commercial pesticide licensing as they only install the equipment and do not ‘apply’ the pesticide, therefore states may have limited abilities to regulate these individuals.
• Off Site Drift - Units are set to automatically spray at timed intervals causing unnecessary applications to be made which will have no effect on the pest.  Off target spray drift is a potential in windy and/or rainy conditions.  Often installation includes areas around the property perimeter without regard for possible consequences on  neighboring property.
• Human Exposure Risks - In 2000, the U.S. Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) published an article which identified 97 cases of human illness associated with use of automatic insecticide dispensers.  The article can be found at: http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/mm4922a3.htm .  Remote control units are available possibly allowing the application to be ‘controlled’ by children or teens ‘playing’ with the system causing potential harm to unsuspecting friends or pets.   The pesticides are sold or provided to the homeowners to ‘maintain’ the system often without any warning about the need for proper mixing, use, disposal, and the potential for harm.  
• Non Target or Endangered Species Exposure - Installation of these systems around property which borders areas inhabited by wildlife may draw animals as a watering source if nozzles drip.  Birds may utilize the installed lines to perch and also utilize nozzles as a water source.  Unsuspecting birds and mammals may possibly be endangered species. 
• EPA is considering conducting a risk assessment to accurately determine the potential human health and environmental hazards from this method of application.  SFIREG may also forward this issue to the Federal Trade Commission and Consumer Products Safety Commission for their attention and reaction as a potential threat to public health and safety.
  
  For more information, contact:
  Donald Baumgartner, Pesticides Program Section (DT-8J)
  U.S. EPA, 77 West Jackson Blvd., Chicago, Illinois 60604
  ph. 312/886-7835; fax 312/353-4788; baumgartner.donald@epa.gov
  
  (15)  NORTHEAST REGIONAL COMMUNITY AND URBAN IPM CONFERENCE
• The Northeast Regional Community and Urban IPM Conference will be held March 15-16, 2005, in Manchester, New Hampshire. Researchers, educators, regulators, and pest managers from across the Northeast will gather to share their insights and expertise on the use of integrated pest management (IPM) in buildings, parks, gardens, golf courses, nurseries, athletic fields, homes, schools, and other urban settings. For a full conference description and registration materials, please visit the conference website (http://northeastipm.org/conference2005_index.cfm ).
  
  (16)  GRANT ANNOUNCED: PEST MANAGEMENT ALTERNATIVES PROGRAM
• This national program can fund IPM projects and other work in alternative pest management strategies.  For details, go to:  http://www.csrees.usda.gov/fo/fundview.cfm?fonum=1114
• The application deadline if February 28, 2005.
• (17)  MANAGEMENT CONSIDERATIONS FOR PESTICIDE MIXER/LOADERS
• This 25-minute DVD allows mixer/loader personnel to study and learn on their own.  It can also be used at grower meetings.  Chapters include:
• Mixer/loader considerations
• Pesticide Label Components
• PPE
• Environmental Safety
• Worker Protection Standard Review
• Let me know if you would like to preview my copy or get a copy of your own.
• (18)  NEW PUBS
• Let me know if you’d like to review these pubs:
• DOT Rules of the road.  Putting Responsible Drivers and Safe Vehicles on the Highway.  Purdue Extension Pesticide Programs.  86 pages.
• Atrazine and Drinking Water: Understanding the Needs of Farmers and Citizens.  Purdue Extension Pesticide Programs.  7 pages
• (19)  REVISED GUIDE TO DRUG, VACCINE, AND PESTICIDE USE IN AQUACULTURE
  The proper use of federally regulated products in aquaculture is essential to provide consumers with safe, wholesome products, and safeguard valuable aquatic resources.
  A revised edition of the popular publication, Guide to Drug, Vaccine, and Pesticide Use in Aquaculture, is now available as a web document. The Guide represents a federal interagency effort with contributions by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's Office of Pesticide Programs; U.S. Food and Drug Administration's Center for Veterinary Medicine and Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition; and U.S. Department of Agriculture's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service and Cooperative State Research, Education and Extension Service.
  
  First released in 1994, Food Chemical News stated the publication promises to be the 'bible' of the industry. According to data from the popular AquaNIC (http://aquanic.org/) web site, the publication has been one of the most requested documents. The revised version is available only in electronic formats in order to facilitate timely updates, as well as to provide more complete information through direct links to important web sites, including product labels for many pesticides and updated information on federal agency web pages. The listing of federally approved products for use in aquaculture is now current for drugs and vaccines, and includes pesticides registered as of January 2004. Content has also been revised to address changes in legislation and compliance policies.  To access the revised publication, go to: oftlinehttp://ag.ansc.purdue.edu/aquanic/jsa/wgqaap/drugguide/drugguide.htm