Monthly Pesticide Regulation Update - August 2024

Key EPA Regulatory Updates from August 2024

August 2024 saw several significant updates from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), particularly in areas related to environmental benchmarks, waste management, pesticide regulation, and product safety. Here's an overview of the most notable EPA actions and developments for the month.

1. Aquatic Life Benchmarks Table Update

On August 22, 2024, the EPA updated its Aquatic Life Benchmarks for registered pesticides. These updates now include benchmark values for estuarine and marine environments and new non-vascular plant benchmarks. New chemicals such as Pyraclonil and Penflufen were added, and benchmarks for existing chemicals, such as Acetaminophen and Benzyl Benzoate, were revised. These benchmarks guide risk assessments for aquatic ecosystems impacted by pesticide use, making it crucial for manufacturers and regulatory bodies to stay informed about these changes to ensure compliance and minimize environmental harm​ (US EPA).

2. EPA Finalizes Herbicide Strategy to Protect Endangered Species

On August 20, 2024, the EPA finalized its Herbicide Strategy aimed at protecting more than 900 endangered and threatened species from herbicide exposure. This strategy marks a significant step forward in the agency's obligations under the Endangered Species Act (ESA). It provides a framework for identifying early mitigation measures to protect sensitive species from herbicides used in agriculture, particularly in the lower 48 states.

The strategy introduces a streamlined process, offering more flexibility to farmers while ensuring species protection. It reduces additional mitigation requirements for farmers who already employ effective conservation practices like cover crops and windbreaks, or operate in regions with minimal runoff risks. For new pesticide registrations and registration reviews, the EPA will integrate these mitigations directly into product labels.

With the finalized strategy, the EPA expects to expedite consultations with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, reducing the time it takes to address the environmental impacts of herbicides on endangered species (US EPA).

How We Can Help

Navigating EPA regulatory updates, especially those related to pesticide registration and environmental compliance, can be complex. Our consultancy specializes in state-level pesticide registrations and can guide manufacturers and distributors through these new regulatory landscapes. Contact us for expert advice tailored to your needs.