On Oct. 21 NAAA submitted comments to the Oregon Department of Agriculture (ODA) to object to proposed new rules on the use of chlorpyrifos in Oregon. The restrictions included a new restricted entry interval (REI) for all agricultural crops, a very broad definition of sensitive sites, and a 300-foot buffer zone for aerial applications next to sensitive sites or permanent waterbodies. The proposed rules banned the use, distribution or sale of chlorpyrifos after Dec. 31, 2023. The only exceptions from this ban include commercial pre-plant seed treatments, granular applications and a pest emergency declared by ODA authorizing the use of chlorpyrifos.
NAAA pointed out that the 300-foot buffer zone for sensitive areas and water bodies should be based on wind direction, as spray drift cannot move upwind. Mandating a buffer zone next to these areas even if the wind is blowing away needlessly reduces growers’ pest control options and can force cropland to be taken out of agricultural production. NAAA also suggested that 300 feet is an unnecessary distance not based on any sound science. The multiple techniques and technologies aerial applicators use to mitigate drift were pointed out in the comments.
The proposed rules for chlorpyrifos in Oregon follow a trend of states trying to ban the insecticide. California and New York have both banned chlorpyrifos even before it moves into the final stages of registration review with the EPA. NAAA is closely monitoring all state and federal activity on chlorpyrifos.