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Environment and Conservation
July 14, 2011

Ban Implemented on Cosmetic Pesticides for Lawn Care

The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador will implement a ban on the sale and use of pesticides for cosmetic lawn care purposes throughout the province, announced the Honourable Ross Wiseman, Minister of Environment and Conservation today.

“Our government has thoroughly examined all aspects of the pesticides debate, using that information to inform our decision to ban products used for cosmetic lawn care purposes in Newfoundland and Labrador,” said Minister Wiseman. “We have listened to the concerns raised by many individuals and groups in the province, analyzed the research conducted by numerous sources, looked at other jurisdictions and, as a result, will implement a ban on cosmetic pesticides that are currently being used for lawn care.”

In order to allow adequate time for vendors, homeowners and lawn care companies to prepare for this ban, it will take effect in the 2012 lawn care season.

The following pesticides will no longer be permitted for application on lawns in the province: carbaryl, 2,4-D (2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid), mecoprop, dicamba, and MCPA (2-methyl-4-chlorophenoxyacetic acid).

As an alternative solution for lawn care maintenance by homeowners, several products approved by Health Canada can continue to be used on lawns. These include, but are not limited to, insecticidal soaps to control chinch bugs, corn gluten meal, Fiesta (an iron-based product to control dandelion), and acetic acid to control other weeds.

“We recognize that many individuals may want options to help manage issues with their lawns, and other registered products present viable options,” said Minister Wiseman. “We will enhance our promotional and educational activities related to the proper use of pesticides and alternatives such as proper lawn installation and maintenance, and will invite partnerships with municipalities and local gardening groups to help educate homeowners on the alternatives to pesticide use on lawns. While we already host annual turf conferences and participate in lawn and garden shows, we will also hold information sessions throughout the province to help teach individuals how to increase the health of their lawns.”

In an effort to ensure compliance with the ban, the Provincial Government will increase inspections of pesticide storage and treatment areas to ensure companies are using products that have been approved for use in the province.

Pesticides are regulated by the Pest Management Regulatory Agency, a branch of Health Canada, under the Pest Control Products Act, and are among the most stringently regulated substances in Canada. In Newfoundland and Labrador, pesticides are further regulated under the Environmental Protection Act.

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Media contact:
Melony O’Neill
Director of Communications
Department of Environment and Conservation
709-729-2575, 689-0928
moneill@gov.nl.ca 

2011 07 14             10:20 a.m.

 
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