NEWS RELEASE

Sale of Pesticides Federal Jurisdiction

(Friday, July 21, 2006) - HRM’s Pesticide By-law allows it to regulate the certain use of pesticides, herbicides and insecticides, but not the registration and sale of pesticides, which is a federal responsibility.

“We receive calls and e-mails on a regular basis from residents concerned about the continued sale of pesticides in our region,” says Stephen King, HRM’s Manager of Environmental Performance.“The registration and sale of pesticides is federal jurisdiction, so HRM doesn’t have the authority to enforce sales. This creates issues and causes confusion for some residents, who expect to see a decrease in sales or some form of required documentation at the point of sale.”

He continued, “Generally, anyone can purchase these products. The purchaser can simply say it’s for properties not affected by the By-law (i.e outside of HRM or non-residential) and the retailer is none the wiser.”

Mr. King said HRM’s public education and awareness programs have been successful and the municipality is in regular contact with the major retailers and vendors. However, the most effective remedy requires action at the federal level regarding the registration and sale of pesticides. This would be done through the federal Pest Management Regulatory Agency and the Pest Control Products Act.

Mr. King said there has been a significant reduction in the use of pesticides in HRM since the By-law came into effect in August 2000. This is due largely to the stewardship efforts and support of residents who have made great efforts towards more sustainable alternatives to lawn and garden care. However, the long-awaited efforts by the federal government regarding registration and sale of pesticides would take the program over the top.

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Stephen King
Environmental Management Services
490-6188