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This site contains information on alternatives to methyl
bromide. This information is intended for use by those interested
or affected by the methyl bromide phaseout, including the agricultural
community, the environmental community, researchers, policy makers
and the media. Please see our disclaimer.
Scientists Test MB Alternatives for Cut Flowers
EPA Issues Tolerances for Sulfuryl Fluoride
Japanese Mint Oil Could be Fumigant Alternative
Scientists Examine Ancient Chinese Pest Control
DEC Offers Grants for Pesticide Alternatives
FL Center Looking for MB Alternatives
Eco-Friendly Fumigant Approved for Use in U.S. Flour Mills
Methyl bromide fumigation alternatives: A quick review of options
IR-4 Announces Results of MB Trials
Growers Explore MB Replacement Options
Researchers Study MB Alternatives for Caladium
California Scientists Study MB Alternatives
2000 Annual International Research Conference on Methyl Bromide Alternatives and Emissions Reductions
Sulfuryl Fluoride Potential Replacement for MB
Cytec Receives EPA Regulatory Approval to Market ECO2FUME Phosphine Fumigant for Food Storage Applications
California Researchers Look for MB Alternatives
ARS Develops New Gerplasm for Potato Growers
California DPR to Offer $1.4 Million in Grants
Researchers Investigate MB Alternatives
ARS Discovers Natural MB Alternative
NAS Releases Report on DPR Methyl Bromide Rules
EPA Approves Possible MB Replacement
Chloropicrin: The Methyl Bromide Alternative Fumigant
September 2001
Scientists Test MB Alternatives for Cut Flowers
The cut flower industry has long relied on a pesticide combination
of methyl bromide (MB) and chloropicrin, which is used to
treat the fields before flowers are planted. However, methyl
bromide has been slated for phaseout due to its ozone-depleting
qualities, leaving the cut flower industry searching for alternatives.
The Watsonville, CA-based California Cut Flower Commission
and the Agricultural Research Service (ARS), have begun testing
MB alternatives, including propargyl bromide, a chemical compound
not yet approved for use as a pesticide.
In order to learn more about propargyl bromide, the U.S. Department
of Agriculture (USDA) earmarked more than $1 million for the
ARS to conduct studies. The coordinator of the studies was
Thomas J. Trout, ARS engineer and head of the ARS Water Management
Research Unit in Fresno, CA.
"Even though propargyl bromide is not new, little is known
about it," said Trout.
Studies were conducted last year at the University of California-Davis
(UC-Davis) and near Watsonville, CA with promising results.
Scientists evaluated propargyl bromide on more than four-dozen,
20-gallon black-plastic nursery pots dropped into the ground.
The pot contents ranged from light sandy soil to heavy clays,
soil types used by commercial flower growers.
Scientists injected the fumigants into the soil and buried
small nylon bags containing fusarium oxysporum spores, weed
seeds, and nematodes into the test pots.
Compounds tested were methyl bromide and chloropicrin, propargyl
bromide, iodomethane, and metam sodium.
"Although results varied somewhat from site to site we found
that either propargyl bromide or iodomethane, applied at moderate
rates gave control that was nearly as good as methyl bromide,"
said UC-Davis weed scientist Clyde Elmore. "None of the chemicals
knocked out field bindweed or little mallow, but that's been
the case with methyl bromide plus chloropicrin, too."
Contact: Thomas Trout, ARS, phone 559-453-3101, fax 559-453-3088,
email ttrout@asrrsarsusda.gov.
WebLink (http://www.usda.gov)
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September 5, 2001
EPA Issues Tolerances for Sulfuryl Fluoride
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recently issued
a proposed rule establishing temporary tolerances for sulfuryl
fluoride and inorganic fluoride residues resulting from application
of sulfuryl fluoride in or on walnuts and raisins.
The agency said the fumigant is being proposed as an alternative
to methyl bromide (MB) in the post-harvest fumigation of stored
walnuts and raisins.
EPA said the tolerances would support a three-year experimental
use permit (EUP) effective between September 24, 2001, and
September 24, 2004, conducted by Dow AgroSciences in the state
of California.
The temporary tolerances will expire April 1, 2006, allowing
approximately 18 months after the end of the EUP for all the
treated commodities "to clear commerce."
Contact: Dennis McNeilly, EPA, phone 703-308-6742, e-mail
mcneilly.dennis@epa.gov.
(FEDERAL REGISTER: 9/5)  WebLink
(http://www.epa.gov/pesticides)
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September 4, 2001
Japanese Mint Oil Could be Fumigant Alternative
The Department of Agriculture's (USDA) Agricultural Research
Service (ARS) recently announced that a number of its researchers
are working with spice and medicinal plant oils in an effort
to develop an alternative method for fumigation control of
the rice weevil Sitophilus oryzae.
The rice weevil is one of the major pests confronting the
stored grain industry. Many conventional fumigants are being
phased out for environmental reasons. In addition, researchers
are finding that some insects are beginning to develop resistance
to commonly-used fumigants.
The most promising oil so far is menthone, the active ingredient
found in the Japanese mint Mentha arvensis. ARS researchers
said a menthone-based fumigant would leave no harmful residues,
would not affect the quality of stored grain, would not be
flammable or corrosive, and could be removed easily using
aeration.
Additional research must be conducted to determine the impact
of a menthone-based fumigant on the flavor and odor of the
treated grain.
Contact: ARS, website http://www.ars.usda.gov
WebLink (http://www.usda.gov)
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May 29, 2001
Scientists Examine Ancient Chinese Pest Control
A team of researchers at the University of Greenwich (UG)
in London are studying a pest control technology originally
used in China 4,000 years ago. UG said the scientists are
examining the pest control properties of diatomaceous earth
(DE), which absorbs the waxy layer of an insect's exoskeleton
when it is processed into fine dust and mixed with stored
grain.
The university said DE was originally used by the Chinese
more than 4,000 years ago after they observed birds and mammals
bathing in dust to rid themselves of parasites. DE is derived
from the fossils of phytoplankton and is found in many parts
of the world.
Researchers have already conducted field trials using the
chalky rock in Zimbabwe. UG said the trials concluded that
DE is "not only as effective as conventional organophosphate
pesticides, but is also far safer...and has been shown to
control insect pests that damage stored grain for up to eight
months."
"Farmers in Africa are concerned about the health implications
of mixing conventional pesticides with their stored grain,"
said UG National Resources Institute (NRI) researcher Tanya
Stathers. "The cost is also prohibitive for many farmers and
the pesticides are not easy to obtain. DE could offer a locally
available, cheaper, healthier and more environmentally friendly
alternative."
Contact: Carl Smith, UG, phone 0-20-8331-7663, e-mail c.d.smith@gre.ac.uk.
WebLink
(http://www.nri.org/Themes/ipm.htm)
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May 17, 2001
DEC Offers Grants for Pesticide Alternatives
The New York Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC)
recently announced that it is offering more than $530,000
in grants to local governments, schools and not-for-profit
organizations for 15 projects that promote alternatives to
pesticides. The agency said the grant funding is intended
"to promote non-toxic pest control methods to reduce the amount
of pesticides used in the state."
"New York state is committed to encouraging non-toxic alternatives
to pesticides to prevent pest infestations and protect the
public from unnecessary exposure to chemicals," said DEC commissioner
Erin Crotty.
DEC said the grants will provide up to $50,000 to municipalities
for training in non-toxic pest control methods and for basic
building repairs designed to prevent pest infestations. Most
grant recipients are expected to conduct training projects
focusing on non-toxic pest management and alternatives to
pesticides.
The grants are being awarded through DEC's Bureau of Pesticides
Management. Funding for the grants was initiated in 1999 with
additional funds provided in the 2000/2001 state budget.
Contact: Jennifer Meicht, DEC, phone 518-457-5400.
(DEC RELEASE: 5/17)
WebLink
(http://www.dec.state.ny.us/)
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May 16, 2001
FL Center Looking for MB Alternatives
Researchers at the Gulf Coast Research and Education Center
in East Manatee, FL held their 44th annual Vegetable Day last
week, and used the opportunity to discuss current research
in finding viable alternatives to methyl bromide (MB).
MB is scheduled to be phased out by 2005 in the U.S., and
the agricultural community is concerned that losing this vital
input will carry major costs.
"One chemical that seems to be fairly effective is Telon,"
said the center's director Jack Rechcigl. "But one of the
problems with Telon is that government restrictions won't
allow you to apply it within 300 feet of an occupied structure.
"That just wouldn't work with strawberries in this area because
in most places most strawberry fields push right up against
residential areas."
At least one visitor voiced his concern that the MB phaseout
is without scientific merit.
"I don't think it's really been proven that methyl bromide
depletes the ozone layer," said Geraldson Farms' Greg Geraldson,
a grower in northwest Manatee County. "Sometimes it seems
like the [Environmental Protection Agency] makes decisions
based on emotion more than on cold, hard facts."
(BRADENTON HERALD: 5/16)
WebLink
(http://gcrec.ifas.ufl.edu/)
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March 6, 2001
Eco-Friendly Fumigant Approved for Use in U.S. Flour Mills
THE FIRST NEW type of phosphine application to be approved
since the mid-1980s for use in U.S. flour mills and grain
silos should be welcome news for an industry faced with phasing
out methyl bromide use over the next four years.
Eco2Fume, a cylinderized phosphine and carbon dioxide-based
fumigant, was granted full food registration last August by
the Environmental Protection Agency. The environmentally friendly,
non-flammable fumigant can be used in place of methyl bromide
in flour mills, as well as grain and food processing plants.
Eco2Fume was invented in the early 1980s by BOC Gases, an
industrial gas company in Australia, and the Australian Commonwealth
Scientific and Industrial Research Organization (CSIRO). In
1999, Cytec Industries, Inc., West Paterson, N.J., purchased
BOC's fumigant business.
The cylinderized mixture of 2% phosphine and 98% carbon dioxide
is a highly effective fumigant in both sealed and unsealed
facilities, according to Brian J. McSwigan, global business
director for phosphine gases at Cytec, which is the registrant
for Eco2Fume in the United States.
Controlled concentration levels
The ready-to-use cylinders directly dispense the gas into
structures from the outside, preventing any worker contact
with the gas. Operators can easily control concentration levels.
Mr. McSwigan said Eco2Fume has tremendous possibilities for
growth in the United States. "We had our first Eco2Fume sale
within days of receiving approval," he said. "Users are pleased
with the results so far. The market has known about the product
since 1996; people are relieved to actually see the product
available."
The product is used on more than 50% of the wheat stored in
Australia and is registered for use in South Africa, New Zealand,
Cyprus and the United States, while experimental trials are
taking place in Denmark, China and Egypt. Cytec also has begun
the registration process on the Caribbean island of Trinidad
and Tobago, is finalizing registration preparations for Canada
and is considering how to address the European market.
It has been predicted that the global target market for Eco2Fume
is worth an estimated $40 million.
Better than methyl bromide?
Although some experts say cylinderized phosphine is not a
full replacement for methyl bromide, since it does not provide
an "instant" kill, phosphine is generally considered to be
a better penetrating fumigant than methyl bromide and diffuses
more evenly over a structure.
As opposed to contact insecticides, which work only on the
surface of grain, fumigants such as phosphine and methyl bromide
are the only known pesticides that can penetrate a grain kernel
or grain mass.
"Phosphine is a much slower-acting poison, and it needs time
to do its job properly," said Chris Newman, managing director
of Grain Tech Systems Pty. Ltd., a fumigation company in Beijing.
Mr. Newman has been working with Cytec to register cylinderized
phosphine in China.
Mr. Newman said the reason phosphine is so important to the
world's grain stocks is that there are so few alternatives.
With the demise of methyl bromide, he said, phosphine will
be the only fumigant that is both commercially available and
effective for killing insects in grain.
"The search is on for new fumigants, but few people expect
that any will be on the market in the foreseeable future,"
he added. "And if and when they are, it is unlikely that they
will be as cheap and easy to use as phosphine."
Phosphine gas is released when aluminum or magnesium phosphide
pellets react with moisture in the air. Cylinderized phosphine
is produced with an acid process to combine phosphorus and
steam to make a gaseous phosphine, which is liquefied and
filled into cylinders. The phosphine mixture is dispensed
as a liquid from the cylinders, but immediately changes to
a gas state when released into the atmosphere.
The largest producer of phosphine in the world, Cytec produces
phosphine in Niagara Falls, Canada. The company also blends
phosphine and carbon dioxide and fills cylinders at this location
to supply North America. Cytec ships phosphine in cylinders
to Australia to be blended into Eco2Fume for that market.
The only known competitor is one Chinese manufacturer believed
to be producing cylinderized phosphine for domestic use, according
to Mr. Newman.
Mr. Newman said cylinderized phosphine is "pure" phosphine
gas — the same chemical that is generated by phosphide pellets
but without the aluminum hydroxide and toxic phosphide residues
left over from tablets.
"By its very nature, cylinderized phosphine can be turned
on and off like water from a tap, and, as a result, the fumigant
dosage can be very accurately controlled and maintained,"
Mr. Newman explained. "This means that grain can be exposed
to low concentrations of phosphine for prolonged periods of
time, which gives the best results when it comes to killing
insects."
Pellets generate phosphine in an uncontrolled manner, he said,
within a few hours or days of being exposed to the grain.
"In order to get a lethal dosage, it is necessary to release
a lot of phosphine at the start of a fumigation in the hope
that there might still be some gas left after a week," Mr.
Newman said. "As a result, the total amount of phosphine released
into the grain, and to the atmosphere, is much higher, resulting
in higher residues in the grain and higher releases to the
atmosphere."
David K. Mueller, president of Fumigation Service and Supply,
Westfield, Ind., which is providing training and technical
support to Eco2Fume users in the United States, said phosphide
pellets usually follow a slow curve to reach a peak of phosphine
release after about 10 to 20 hours, after which the phosphine
concentration begins to fall. Cylinderized phosphine offers
the ability to achieve the required concentration levels for
a "kill" within one to two hours, he said, regardless of moisture
level or ambient temperature.
Mr. Newman added that because of the uncontrolled nature of
pellet fumigations, pockets of low concentration almost invariably
exist in a silo fumigated with pellets, with the result that
some insects are bound to survive.
"Like bacteria that is exposed to inadequate dosages of antibiotics,
it has been discovered that insects gradually develop resistance
to phosphine over time if they are allowed to survive," he
added. "Therefore, widespread use of poor fumigation practices
creates the risk that phosphine will become ineffective as
a fumigant in the future."
The importance of this has only been recognized by a few countries
— Australia in particular — "which is one reason why cylinderized
phosphine has been so well accepted there," said Mr. Newman,
who is an Australian. "The other reasons are that it is much
easier and much safer to use, since fumigators have only to
turn on a tap to fumigate a grain mass without exposing themselves
to the gas itself."
There also is no danger of spontaneous combustion, as there
is with pellets, Mr. Newman said. He surmises that if an application
for registration of pellets were made today, it probably would
be rejected not only because of their toxic hazards, but from
the risk of fire or dust explosion that exists when pellets
are used in a silo.
How it works:
Ready-to-use cylinders directly dispense the phosphine gas/carbon
dioxide mixture into structures from the outside, preventing
any worker contact with the gas. Operators can easily control
concentration levels. This diagram illustrates how tubing
is connected to the cylinders and inserted into the fumigation
space.
(Milling & Baking News, March 6, 2001)
WebLink
(http://www.world-grain.com)
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March 6, 2001
Methyl bromide fumigation alternatives: A quick review
of options
FOR THOSE STILL using methyl bromide, it is important to begin
researching and trying alternative fumigation methods. Here
is a review of some options for structural and commodity fumigation.
•Eco2Fume is a mixture of 98% carbon dioxide and 2% phosphine
in a cylinder. This fumigant offers safety and efficiency
advantages over conventional phosphine.
•Sulfuryl fluoride — to be called Profume if the post-harvest
version is registered — is already used for wood-destroying
pests, but Dow AgroSciences is currently working to register
this material for food uses. E.P.A. registration is expected
by 2003. Research has shown that the ozone-friendly material
is very effective against post-harvest insects.
•Heat is an effective and fast treatment for flour mills and
food processing facilities. Quaker Oats, Ralston Purina, General
Mills and Pillsbury currently use heat to treat about 10%
of the flour mills and food factories in the United States.
•Purdue University, West Lafayette, Ind., has shown that grain
chilling in silos is a potential alternative to methyl bromide.
Cold can also be used to treat organic food. This method takes
longer and is more expensive than methyl bromide because temperatures
must be held cool for a month.
•Replacing oxygen with carbon dioxide or nitrogen is an effective
way to control stored product insects. This technique is often
combined with heat, cold or pressure to increase efficacy
and decrease the time necessary for control.
•Phosphine is a common fumigant for grain and can be very
effective. It can be combined with recycled carbon dioxide
and heat to lower the amount needed and increase effectiveness.
It is available in tablets, pellets or gas form.
•Diatomaceous earth (DE) absorbs the wax coatings on insects
so insects cannot retain moisture, causing death by dehydration.
It is used primarily as a spot treatment or specific area
treatment.
•Integrated pest management (IPM) uses a variety of methods
to manage pests in a facility. Includes assessment, regular
inspections, monitoring, good sanitation practices, maintenance
and routine facility observations. Begin by developing an
IPM strategy.
(Milling & Baking News, March 6, 2001)
WebLink
(http://www.world-grain.com)
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Winter, 2001
IR-4 Announces Results of MB Trials
The IR-4 Project recently announced results for four methyl
bromide (MB) alternative trials for strawberries conducted
during the fall 1999 planting season in California. The group
said the results only concern marketable berry yield, berry
value, plant growth and vigor, harvested cull berries and
control of nematodes, fungal pathogens and weeds.
The test sites were located in the primary strawberry production
areas of Oxnard and Salinas, CA. The researchers examined
such MB alternatives as iodomethane; a mixture of enzone,
chloropicrin and metam sodium; basamid and inline; metam sodium;
inline and metam sodium; and, DiTera ES and chloropicrin and
metam sodium.
IR-4 said all of the alternative treatments were compared
to a MB and chloropicrin standard, a metam sodium "check"
and an untreated control. The rates and application methods
used were determined according to what each company believed
appropriate for its products to provide control equivalent
to MB and chloropicrin and not be harmful to the strawberries.
All treatments were replicated four times in a randomized
complete block design. The replicate plot size was a single
bed -- 64 inches center in the Oxnard test and 46 inches center
in the Salinas test -- and 150 feet long. The strawberry varieties
used in the trials were Camarosa for the Oxnard trials and
Diamonte for the Salinas trials.
IR-4 said treatments showing the most promise were iodomethane
with chloropicrin, inline in combination with either basamid
or metam sodium, enzone in combination with chloropicrin and
metam sodium, and DiTera plus chloropicrin and metam sodium.
Contact: Jack Norton, IR-4 Project, phone 908-735-9585, e-mail
jnorton@hunterdon.csnet.net.
(IR-4 NEWSLETTER: WINTER 2001)
WebLink
(http://www.usda.gov)
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January 11, 2001
Growers Explore MB Replacement Options
Strawberry growers in the U.S. will be one of most seriously
affected groups when the country begins to phaseout use of
the ozone-depleting fumigant known as methyl bromide (MB).
Growers inject MB gas and chloropicrin into the soil before
planting in order to kill fungi and bacteria that cause plant
diseases, and weeds that will compete with the berries.
Scientists at U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Agricultural
Research Service (ARS) labs in Fresno, Salinas and Davis,
CA, are currently working to develop MB alternatives for strawberry
growers. At ARS' Fresno lab, soil scientists Husein Ajwa and
Thomas Trout are developing a system that uses irrigation
piping to deliver the fumigants.
Ajwa said that applying fumigants through drip irrigation
systems will reduce worker exposure and decrease the amount
of chemicals need to treat fields. The researchers said the
most promising fumigant they have used so far is Inline, a
combinations of about 60 percent 1,3-dichloropropene and up
to 35 percent chloropicrin.
Cynthia Eayre, a plant pathologist at the Fresno lab, is studying
rhizobacteria to help promote plant growth. The rhizobacteria
live on or around plant roots in the soil zone known as the
rhizosphere. Eayre has discovered about six strains of rhizobacteria
that could help ease the transition from MB to replacement
fumigants.
At ARS' lab in Davis, CA, plant pathologist Greg Browne is
investigating Phytophthora -- a soilborne fungus that can
cause severe root rot and crown rot in strawberry plants.
Browne is evaluating strawberry varieties for strong natural
resistance that could be bred into new commercial cultivars.
Researchers at ARS' lab in Salinas are studying such pathogens
as Pythium, Rhizoctonia and Cylindrocarpon. In addition, plant
pathologist Carolee Bull is examining the experience of organic
farmers "who never relied on methyl bromide in the first place."
Contact: Marcia Wood, ARS, phone 510-559-6070, fax 510-559-5882.
WebLink
(http://www.usda.gov)
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December 18, 2000
Researchers Study MB Alternatives for Caladium
The majority of the world's caladium tubers are produced in
the surrounding area of Lake Placid, FL. The tubers are normally
grown in muck or high organic matter soils, making soilborne
pest control a major concern for caladium producers. Most
caladium producers fumigate their soil with methyl bromide
(MB). However, upcoming international regulations designed
to protect the Earth's stratospheric ozone layer will soon
phaseout use of the ozone-depleting fumigant.
Scientists recently completed a two-year study intended to
find an acceptable substitute to MB as a soil fumigant in
caladium tuber production. The study was conducted on a commercial
farm near Lake Placid that had been fumigated with MB for
several years prior.
Researchers applied treatments to 50-foot-long by 22-foot-wide
plots. Each plot contained five beds with four rows each.
The study examined such MB alternatives as chloropicrin, 1,3-dichloropropene
(1,3-D) and metam sodium in various combinations.
In addition, researchers applied metolachlor herbicide to
plots treated with 1,3-D or metam sodium. The plots also received
treatments of oryzalin seven weeks after planting. Non-treated
control plots received no fumigant or herbicide treatment
during the study.
The scientists found that during the first year of the study,
plots treated with a combination of 83 percent 1,3-D and 17
percent chloropicrin at 35 gallons per acre grew "just as
vigorous as those where methyl bromide had been applied."
For the second year of the study, researchers found that plots
treated with the 1,3-D and chloropicrin combination grew the
most vigorously, but "were no more vigorous than those grown
in [MB-fumigated] soil."
The study concluded that the 1,3-D and chloropicrin combination
"may be a viable replacement for MB when combined with metolachlor
or oryzalin herbicide at planting followed by a midsummer
application of oryzalin."
(USDA MB ALTERNATIVES NEWSLETTER: OCTOBER 2000)
WebLink
(http://www.usda.gov)
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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2000
California Scientists Study MB Alternatives
Growers in California consume nearly 16 million pounds of
the ozone-depleting pre-plant fumigant methyl bromide (MB)
annually, comprising almost half of the total amount of MB
used in the U.S. However, use of the fumigant will be banned
starting in 2005 under the current terms of the Montreal Protocol
and the Clean Air Act.
To compensate for the loss of MB, scientists at the University
of California (UC) have been studying such chemical alternatives
as 1,3-dichloropropene, metam sodium and chloropicrin. Researchers
are also examining non-chemical alternatives, including soil
solarization and biofumigation.
Soil solarization involves the use of a clear polyethylene
film to cover moistened soil. The film traps heat from solar
radiation in order to disinfest the soil. Researchers said
the method should not be considered a universal replacement
for MB because it requires certain specific conditions in
order to be effective.
Soil biofumigation involves injecting various organic amendments
into the soil in order to trigger a reaction that produces
pesticidal activity. Some biofumigation processes include
a shift in soil to a community of microflora that are hostile
towards certain soilborne pests, while others release biotoxic
compounds as they degrade in soil.
UC researchers have found that the use of solarization with
residues of cabbage or other items, such as composted animal
manures to be effective. Other studies have discovered fungicidal
activity of Brassica residues in coastal soils without solar
heating.
(CALIFORNIA AGRICULTURE: NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2000)
WebLink
(http://danr.ucop.edu/calag/)
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November 10, 2000
2000 Annual International Research Conference on Methyl
Bromide Alternatives and Emissions Reductions
Working together to quickly develop and implement economically
viable and environmentally sound alternatives to methyl bromide,
agricultural and forestry researchers from governmental, academic
and private institutions gathered together in Orlando Florida
November 6 - 9, 2000 to share information on laboratory, field,
and on-farm research and technology transfer.
The conference was devoted to the sharing of information on
current and ongoing research into methyl bromide alternatives.
Attendance surpassed 400 researchers, growers, and interested
persons, with a significant level of international participation.
The conference featured concurrent sessions concerning research
on alternatives to methyl bromide for preplant, post-harvest,
and structural uses.
The 2001 Alternatives will be in San Diego, California, November
5-8, at the Double Tree Hotel.
The 2002 Alternatives will be in Orlando, Florida, November
6-9, at the Omni Rosen Hotel.
Full Conference Proceedings from the 2000,
1999, 1998,
1997, 1995
and 1994 meetings are online
in pdf.
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October 2000
Sulfuryl Fluoride Potential Replacement for MB
Sulfuryl fluoride is presently considered by many to be "the
postharvest fumigant of the future." The chemical's trade name
is Vikane gas fumigant and it is registered for structural fumigations
to combat wood-boring beetles and wood termites.
Dow Agro Sciences said recently that it has begun Environmental
Protection Agency (EPA) registration procedures to allow the
use of sulfuryl fluoride in postharvest situations. The fumigant
is not an ozone-depleting substance.
Dow Agro Sciences is also attempting to get sulfuryl fluoride
registered as a gas fumigant for postharvest use in dry fruits,
tree nuts and cereal grains. Once the substance is reformulated
for postharvest applications, it will be called ProFume gas
fumigant.
Sulfuryl fluoride and MB are applied similarly and confinement
procedures must be strictly adhered to for both chemicals. Sulfuryl
fluoride is effective against the active life stages of postharvest
insects, but requires more fumigant for egg stages than for
other postembryonic stages, said ARS entomologist Larry Zettler.
While sulfuryl fluoride is not as effective as MB, it is in
the lead as an alternative. The substance has undergone toxicity
testing mandated by the EPA and results have shown that it does
not leave parent compound residue on foods.
Dow Agro Sciences said it is also examining ways to achieve
optimal fumigation efficiency, improve sealing techniques and
use of heat to increase susceptibility and gas monitoring exposure.
(METHYL BROMIDE ALTERNATIVES: OCT. 2000)
WebLink
(http://www.usda.gov)
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September 26,
2000
Cytec Receives EPA Regulatory Approval to Market ECO2FUME
Phosphine Fumigant for Food Storage Applications
WEST PATERSON, N.J.-- Cytec Industries Inc. announced today
that the company has received regulatory approval from the U.S.
EPA to market ECO2FUME® phosphine fumigant for food applications,
including grains, nuts and fruits. Cytec secured EPA approval
in December 1999 to market the fumigant for non-food applications.
ECO2FUME is an environmentally friendly, non-flammable fumigant
that is easily applied to control insects in stored, post-harvest
commodities. ECO2FUME fumigant can be an effective alternative
to methyl bromide in stored product or structural applications
and is the first new alternative approved by the U.S. EPA. Methyl
bromide, an ozone-depleting chemical is currently being phased
out, according to the provisions of the Montreal Protocol, and
will be banned in all developed countries by 2005. The global
market targeted for ECO2FUME fumigant is estimated at $40 million
representing the post-harvest uses of methyl bromide as well
as metallic phosphide fumigants.
``This approval supports our continued strategy to invest in
the technological growth of our core businesses to satisfy growing
customer demands,'' said David Lilley, chairman, president and
chief executive officer. ``The approval also complements our
global leadership position in other phosphine-based specialty
markets.''
Cytec acquired the core assets of BOC Gases' global phosphine
fumigants business in August 1999 for approximately M$4.5 including
contingent payments. In addition to the current business, primarily
in Australia, Cytec acquired the worldwide rights to BOC's ECO2FUME®
trademark, other intellectual property, and existing and pending
government regulatory registrations.
Cytec Industries Inc. is a specialty chemicals and materials
technology company with 1999 sales of $1.4 billion and diluted
earnings per share of $2.73. Its growth strategies are based
on developing technologically advanced customer solutions for
global markets, including: aerospace, plastics, industrial coatings,
mining, and water treatment. Cytec is in the S&P Mid-cap 400
index.
WebLink
(http://www.cytec.com) |
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August 28, 2000
California Researchers Look for MB Alternatives
Farmers and scientists have recently been cultivating and testing
thousands of acres of land in the San Joaquin Valley with chemical
and nonchemical treatments in an effort to develop methyl bromide
(MB) alternatives.
Scientists have been desperately searching for alternatives
to the ozone-depleting substance (ODS) which faces a nationwide
phaseout beginning next year. The phaseout that will cut MB
supplies by one-third, and eliminate domestic use of the chemical
by 2005.
According to recent estimates, California farmers account for
almost 50 percent of MB use in the country. It is expected that
strawberry farmers will be most affected by the ban. However,
orchards and vineyards which use soil fumigants are expected
to be greatly impacted, as well.
Although researchers have reported promising results with chemicals
such as telone, vapam, methyl iodide and chloropicrin, many
obstacles remain before their use can become widespread. None
have yet to gain the approval of the Environmental Protection
Agency (EPA), and many face challenges in their practical application,
such as longer than normal fallow periods.
Other alternatives require extensive irrigation networks and
harmful emissions that could endanger farmhands.
(FRESNO BEE: 8/28)
WebLink(www.fresnobee.com) |
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July 26, 2000
ARS Develops New Gerplasm for Potato Growers
The U.S. Department of Agriculture's (USDA) Agricultural Research
Service (ARS) recently announced it has developed a new germplasm
that will help North American potato growers avoid infestations
of golden and "white" potato-cyst nematodes.
ARS said the ozone-depleting pesticide methyl bromide is commonly
used to protect crops from these nematodes and other pests.
However, use of the chemical is slated to be phased out by 2005.
The golden nematodes, known as Globodera rostochiensis, only
attack potato crops in New York state. The pests can kill an
entire potato crop by eating the roots of the plants. The "white"
potato-cyst nematode G. pallida, affects potato crops outside
the U.S.
The new germplasm was developed by ARS plant pathologist Bill
Brodie along with researchers from Cornell University and the
International Potato Center in Lima, Peru.
ARS said seeds that resist the nematodes are being released
by Cornell's Agricultural Experiment Station and ARS. In addition,
the germplasm will be deposited in the U.S. Potato Introduction
Station Germplasm Collection in Sturgeon Bay, WI for long-term
storage in the ARS potato gene bank.
Contact: Bill Brodie, ARS, phone 607-255-2158, fax 607-255-2739,
e-mail ars-ithaca@cornell.edu.
(ARS RELEASE: 7/26)
WebLink
(http://www.ars.usda.gov) |
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July 25, 2000
California DPR to Offer $1.4 Million in Grants
The California Department of Pesticide Regulation (DPR) recently
announced that it will offer $1.4 million in grants next year
in an effort to cut pesticide use.
DPR hopes to award more than 30 grants for projects designed
to find alternatives to pesticides so that workers can limit
their exposure to possible toxins, surface and ground water
is protected, and further research goes into pesticide alternatives
including methyl bromide. Grants will also be awarded for integrated
pest management (IPM) methods at public schools and other public
buildings.
DPR plans to award up to $50,000 to approximately 10 pest management
demonstration projects and up to $30,000 to approximately eight
pest management applied research projects. Proposals that offer
matching or inkind services will be given top consideration
and applications are due by October 6.
Groups seeking evaluations of their current pest management
systems may apply for up to $10,000 in funding. DPR expects
to evaluate up to 10 projects and may choose to provide more
assistance to those projects that emphasize reduced-risk methods.
Evaluation applications are due in by September 6.
Those pest management projects that are evaluated by DPR may
opt to apply for Pest Management alliances, which are public-private
partnerships that address pest management issues. Those groups
that successfully complete the evaluations may apply for Alliance
grants of up to $100,000 per year.
Contact: Bob Elliott, DPR, phone 916-324-4100, e-mail belliott@cdpr.ca.gov
(DPR RELEASE: 7/25)
WebLink
(http://www.cdpr.ca.gov) |
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July 24, 2000
Researchers Investigate MB Alternatives
Agricultural Research Service (ARS) scientists recently announced
that farmers may benefit from growing wheat in apple orchards.
ARS said that when wheat is grown as a rotation crop in apple
orchards, it may prevent "replant disease" in young trees.
Previously treated with methyl bromide (MB), farmers and researchers
have been searching for alternatives since MB use became the
subject of an investigation that labeled it an ozone depleting
substance (ODS).
Researchers discovered that the disease results from a buildup
of four types of soil-borne fungi. Although MB and other soil
fumigants effectively treat the condition, alternatives will
soon be needed because of inevitable MB phaseouts, said ARS.
"Apple trees seem to change the soil in a way that favors these
pathogens," said ARS scientist Mark Mazzola. "Some wheat varieties,
on the other hand, modify the soil environment to the benefit
of different microorganisms."
ARS said its scientists have agreed that chemicals exuded from
plants affect the surrounding soil, thereby favoring specific
populations of microorganisms. Scientists said that after about
three years in the soil apple trees promote fungal growth that
may cause disease.
The scientists said that planting wheat may "starve out" the
fungi, thereby eliminating the threat of disease. ARS cautioned
that these findings are preliminary and need much more research
before they could be applied in widescale tests in orchards.
(ARS RELEASE: 7/24)
WebLink
(http://www.ars.usda.gov) |
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June 8, 2000
ARS Discovers Natural MB Alternative
Scientists with the U.S. Department of Agriculture's (USDA)
Agricultural Research Service (ARS) recently discovered a new
bioherbicide that could replace the use ozone-depleting methyl
bromide (MB) to control weeds in tomatoes. ARS said the bioherbicide,
known as Myrothecium verrucaria, is found in sicklepod plants
in the southeastern U.S. and is able to control kudzu, a weed
that commonly grows in the South.
ARS researchers C. Douglas Boyette and Hamed Abbas treated tomato
plots with natural infestations of common purslane, horse purslane,
ground spurge and spotted spurge with Myrothecium before planting
Beefsteak tomato seedlings. ARS noted that these weeds are a
serious concern for commercial tomato growers. The researchers
found that the bioherbicide eliminated the weeds in several
field tests. In addition, the scientists applied Myrothecium
in place of MB, which is commonly used on commercially grown
tomatoes. After two weeks, no weeds were found and the tomatoes
prospered.
ARS said tomato crops have the highest consumption of methyl
bromide of all crop uses, accounting for 23 percent of pre-plant
methyl bromide use. Nearly 4,000 tons of the chemical are applied
each year to control nematodes, insects and weeds.
The researchers are also studying other natural alternatives
to methyl bromide, including Fusarium solaniand Colletotrichum
truncatum.
Contact: C. Douglas Boyette, ARS, phone 662-686-5222, fax 662-686-5422,
e-mail dboyette@ag.gov.
(ARS RELEASE: 6/8)
WebLink
(http://www.ars.usda.gov) |
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May 4, 2000
NAS Releases Report on DPR Methyl Bromide Rules
The National Academies of Science (NAS) recently released its
peer review of the California Department of Pesticide Regulation's
(DPR) proposed regulations for the use of methyl bromide. DPR
contracted with NAS in May 1999 to conduct a peer review of
DPR's risk assessment of methyl bromide.
The National Research Council convened the Subcommittee for
the Review of the Risk Assessment of Methyl Bromide to review
DPR's 1999 risk assessment of methyl bromide. The subcommittee
was instructed to review the data, determine the appropriateness
of the critical studies, consider the mode of action of methyl
bromide and its implications in risk assessment, determine the
appropriateness of the exposure assessment and the mathematical
models, and identify data gaps and make recommendations for
further research.
NAS said DPR's 1999 risk characterization document is a revision
on a 1992 preliminary risk assessment that addressed acute inhalation
exposure of residents re-entering fumigated homes. The subcommittee
organized its comments on the 1999 risk assessment into three
categories: toxicology, exposure assessment and risk characterization.
For toxicology, NAS said the DRP report "appropriately summarizes
the available toxicokinetic data on methyl bromide in terms
of its absorption, distribution and excretion, but provide only
a limited discussion of the metabolism of the pesticide." The
subcommittee also found that the DPR report "compiled a large
quantity of exposure data," but fails "to address several exposure
scenarios."
In addition, the subcommittee determined that DPR "did not conduct
a complete risk assessment, because there was no quantification
of the populations of workers that are likely to be exposed
or the number of residents living near fields or entering houses."
Contacts:
Veda Federighi, DPR, phone 916-445-3974,
Bill Kearney, NAS, phone 202-334-2138.
(DPR RELEASE: 5/4)
WebLink(http://www.cdpr.ca.gov) |
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April 28, 2000
EPA Approves Possible MB Replacement
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recently approved
a pesticide that may be a viable replacement for methyl bromide
(MB), a fumigant that is slated for phaseout.
The biopesticide, known as Messenger, is a protein product derived
from harpin that triggers plants' natural defense systems against
such ailments as viruses, bacteria, and fungi. The protein also
helps the plant fight off some insects and stimulates root growth,
decreasing the plant's need for water. Cornell University scientists
discovered that plants sprayed with the biopesticide before
being attacked are able to develop resistance.
"We've been anxiously awaiting the registration so we can use
the product in the field," said Dan Botts, director of environmental
and pest management division for the Florida Fruit and Vegetable
Association.
EPA said Messenger has been field-tested in more than 500 trials,
on over 40 different crops. The agency noted that the product
poses no threat to human health and evaporates within two hours
of application. When tested on tomatoes in Florida, crop yields
improved by as much as 22 percent. The product will be marketed
by Seattle, WA-based EDEN Bioscience Corporation.
Contact: EPA Office of Pesticide Programs5tr
(AP: 4/28)
WebLink
(http://www.epa.gov/pesticides) |
Back to Top
February 5, 2000
Chloropicrin: The Methyl Bromide Alternative Fumigant
Chloropicrin, which is trichloronitromethane teargas, is available
in 100% formulations as Chlor-o-Pic (Great Lakes Chem. Corp.,
West Lafayette, Indiana) and as HD-Pic (Hendrix and Dail,
Inc., Greenville, NC). Chloropicrin alone and in combination
with other fumigants has received considerable praise in field
trials of strawberry production.
Chloropicrin has been known for decades to be more effective
than methyl bromide in controlling soil-borne fungal pathogens,
but less effective in controlling weeds and nematodes. For
this reason, it has found its greatest usefulness in a combination
with methyl bromide, in the past. However, Chloropicrin does
provide some degree of control of free-ranging nematodes such
as ring, dagger and lance vermiforms. These are the types
of nematodes that occasionally cause problems on woody plants.
Current studies of chloropicrin combined with Telone (dichloropropene)
in a formulation 30:70 ratio of (Terr-o-cide, Great Lakes;
Tri-form 30, Hendrix and Dail) have shown that it can promote
yields in strawberry that are even greater than those promoted
by methyl bromide-chloropicrin fumigation, and this was without
requiring alterations to existing cultivation methods.
The actual cost of contract application of chloropicrin on
teleonechloropicrin including injection and tarping, will
be similar to that for methyl bromide (see comparison chart
at the web link below).
By contract application, chloropicrin is injected as a liquid
into the nursery bed to a depth of six to eleven inches. injection
is scheduled for about 14 or more days before planting. The
beds are tarped with clear plastic during the injection, and
tarps are opened or removed at least 24 hours afterwards.
In strawberry beds, the fumigation plastic can remain in place
for the duration of the crop.
After application of chloropicrin, the fumigant becomes environmentally
benign. It rapidly degrades in sunlight. In soil, it is metabolized
by microorganisms to form carbon dioxide and it is not accumulated
in plant tissues. Additionally, chloropicrin is not water
soluble so it does not follow water percolation into groundwater.
Telone C17 was a Dow-Elanco formulation of Telone - chloropicrin
at 78:17 ratio. This well-known fumigant is not of the correct
ratio for use as an effective alternative to methyl bromide.
However, Dow-Elanco is preparing a new formulation of 70:30
as an effective substitute for methyl bromide. Telone alone
will not provide disease control.
A comparison of costs among fumigants can be found at the
web link below.
Michigan State University Extension - 51697004
WebLink
(http://www.msue.msu.edu/msue/imp/modc1/51697004.html)
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Disclaimer
Please note that the much of the information
contained on this web site was not developed by the U.S. Environmental
Protection Agency nor is such information reviewed in depth
by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. The purpose of
this site is to provide information on methyl bromide alternatives
in a timely manner. As such, this is intended to be a consolidated
source of information, and is only intended to be used as
a general reference. While all efforts were made to insure
that the information herein is correct and factual, this information
is not certified to be accurate or current. The views and
opinions expressed herein do not necessarily state or reflect
those of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, United
States Government or any Agency thereof. The information alternative
materials and methods discussed in this site are not intended
to constitute a pesticide recommendation. Many of the alternatives
discussed herein are not intended to be complete replacements
for methyl bromide, but tools which are efficacious against
the pests that are currently controlled by this pesticide.
Many of the alternatives described herein are part of an overall
integrated pest management system, and must be combined with
other pest control tools to achieve an economically viable
level of management. Information on this site may discuss
specific proprietary products and pest control methods. Some
of these alternatives may be commercially available, while
others are in an advanced stage of development. In all cases,
the information presented does not constitute a pesticide
use recommendation or an endorsement of these products or
methods by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Neither
should the absence of an item or pest control method necessarily
be interpreted as U.S. Environmental Protection Agency disapproval.
Where possible, web links are included to allow the reader
to gain additional information on a particular subject. This
symbol:
is an indication of a link to information outside of the Agency.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency cannot attest to
the accuracy of information provided by linked sites. In this
regard, links to web sites outside the U.S. Environmental
Protection Agency Web site are for the convenience of the
user. The Standards of Ethical Conduct do not permit the U.S.
Environmental Protection Agency to endorse any private sector
web site, related product, or related service. These links
are being provided consistent with the intended purpose of
this U.S. Environmental Protection Agency web site. Because
the sites associated with web links are maintained separately
and outside the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is unable to guarantee
the accuracy of the data or data updates related to such linkages,
and does not exercise any editorial control over the information
you may find.
Comments on the information contained at this site are welcome.
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