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EPA REGISTERS NEW REDUCED RISK HERBICIDE FOR FIELD CORN USE
Release Date: 02/05/99
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FOR RELEASE: FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 5, 1999
EPA REGISTERS NEW REDUCED RISK HERBICIDE FOR FIELD CORN USE
The EPA has registered a new reduced risk herbicide for use on field corn. The new herbicide controls a wide range of broadleaf weeds and suppresses some grasses. It is of low acute toxicity to humans, mammals, birds, aquatic organisms, and honeybees. The active ingredient in the herbicide is a chemical called diflufenzopyr and will be manufactured by BASF Corp., Research Triangle Park, N.C., under the trade name, Distinct. Health and safety data submitted to the EPA indicate that in addition to its low acute toxicity, diflufenzopyr is not a carcinogen, and does not cause developmental or reproductive effects. Based on its chemical and physical characteristics, diflufenzopyr is not expected to contaminate groundwater. As a result of these findings, the EPA was able to register this product in 13 months. The Food Quality Protection Act of 1996 directs the EPA to give priority to the registration of reduced risk pesticides. In addition, the EPA conducted its review of diflufenzopyr jointly with the Canadian Pest Management Regulatory Agency (PMRA), under the North American Free Trade Agreement. Canada also has registered the product for use on field corn. Under NAFTA, U.S. and Canada are coordinating their review of pesticides to reduce trade barriers and bring safer pesticide products to both markets faster. The EPA and PMRA have requested the development of field data on the use of diflufenzopyr, including rotational crop studies, and certain ecological studies. As a condition of registration, these studies will be reviewed on an ongoing basis by the EPA and PMRA. More information on diflufenzopyr is available on the EPA website at: www.epa.gov/oppfead1/international/naftatwg.
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