Re Rotenone
Charles Benbrook (benbrook@hillnet.com)
Wed, 16 Aug 1995 21:28:01 -0400 (EDT)
Guy Ames asks about fall-out from losing rotenone. It does not have to
be. EPA has authority to grant registrations, or re-registrations on its
own when it considers such an action in the public interest. It has
taken such actions to save French wine producers, various grower groups,
and state government agencies. If organic farmers feel they can make the
case that: 1) as used rotenone poses no adv. impacts on man and the
environment and 2) registered alt. are worse (or no control, meaning
perhaps a reduction in safe food for American consumers), then the EPA
should act. The petition or request needs to come from farmers and
consumers. I am sure some national consumer groups would help make the
case, but farmers need to first make the case for need and safety. This
process need not be costly or time-consuming, now that EPA is so into
swift action etc etc.