PMRA’s recent announcement about neonicotinoid insecticides could eliminate a critical pest managing tool
By Kate Ayers
Staff Writer
Farms.com
Alberta Pulse Growers (APG), alongside other ag organizations across the country, are providing feedback on Health Canada’s Pest Management Regulatory Agency’s (PMRA) proposed ban.
On Aug. 15, PMRA announced that it would phase out the two remaining major neonicotinoid insecticides in the next three to five years, an APG release said yesterday.
This proposal follows re-evaluations that discovered both clothianidin and thiamethoxam at levels that could harm aquatic insects.
The PMRA launched a 90-day consultation period, which ends on Nov. 13, to collect industry feedback. APG will work with Grain Growers of Canada, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, Canada Grains Council and others to share stakeholder feedback, the release said.
APG worked through a similar process with the neonic imidacloprid. The final verdict for this insecticide is expected by the year’s end.
The Canadian pulse industry is concerned that the PMRA reached this decision without considering the impacts it could have on ag stakeholders. The industry will submit options to the PMRA of how producers can mitigate the environmental effects of the products, as well as outline how a neonic ban could effect the industry, the release said.
The pulse sector has limited options to protect its crops, and in some case, neonic seed treatments are the only registered products that target specific insects, the release said. Banning the remaining two major neonics would be big hits to producers, as it would eliminate critical management tools.
Producers are encouraged to reach out to Nevin Rosaasen, APG policy and program specialist, with any questions or concerns.
gilaxia/iStock/Getty Images Plus photo