CDPR Releases Final Findings on Fumigant Alternatives Study

The California Department of Pesticide Regulation (DPR) released the fourth and final component of a multi-part study exploring alternatives to fumigant pesticides. The independent research conducted by the California Council on Science and Technology (CCST) specifically looked at methyl bromide and three pesticides known as MITC generators – dazomet, metam-sodium, and metam-potassium.  Similar to the findings from CCST’s previous reports, this report found that, while alternatives exist, there is no single alternative that can be used as a 1:1 substitute for methyl bromide or MITC generators. In particular, the cost and effectiveness of alternatives remain a significant barrier for growers.  “DPR has made a strong commitment to sustainable pest management and finding alternatives to fumigants,” said DPR Director Karen Morrison. “We will continue to prioritize actions to protect human health and the environment through research and innovation.”  In response, Association President/CEO Roger A. Isom stated “The report findings confirm what we have known all along, but CDPR had to go through the exercise due to the immense pressure put on the state by anti-pesticide activists.  That being said, we continue to support research to find alternatives.”    Both methyl bromide and MITC generators are restricted material pesticides in California – a group of high-risk pesticides that are strictly regulated to protect public health and the environment.  DPR commissioned the independent study following the release of the Sustainable Pest Management (SPM) Roadmap to evaluate fumigant use and existing alternatives with funding from the California Budget Act of 2023-24. CCST’s reports focused on soil fumigants 1,3-D and chloropicrin, alternatives to sulfuryl fluoride, and post-harvest commodity fumigation.