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Scientists, health advocates, and environmental activists in California are expressing their concern to Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger that agriculture in this state will become more dangerous if a new fumigant is approved for use. Patented by UC Riverside and licensed to “Arysta LifeScience,” the new pesticide, methyl iodide would replace the ozone depleting methyl bromide primarily in strawberry and tomato fields. While methyl iodide, which will be marketed under the product name “Midas,” is not harmful to the Earth’s atmosphere, many scientists and concerned citizens worry that it increases cancer and other health related risks in humans and other animals. Initially, the Environmental Protection Agency refused to register methyl iodide as a legal pesticide in 2006. However, in 2007, the EPA registered the chemical for only one year, despite expressions of deep concern. The time limit was removed by the EPA last year effectively authorizing methyl iodide’s use indefinitely. California, as the nation’s leading strawberry producer, offers a major market for the new fumigant, but before farmers can put it to use, California’s Department of Pesticide Regulation must first approve it.

GUEST: Dr. Susan Kegley, PhD Chemist and consulting scientist for the Pesticide Action Network

For more information, visit www.panna.org.