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Diazinon Found in Boise Wastewater

Release Date: 7/2/2002
Contact Information: Karl Arne
arne.karl@epamail.epa.gov
(206) 553-2576

Diazinon, a common pesticide being phased out of residential use due to its toxic effects on children, has been found in samples from one of Boise = s wastewater treatment plants.

Due to its toxicity to children and the risks it poses to workers, drinking water supplies, birds and other wildlife, the producers of diazinon products have agreed to completely eliminate diazinon for residential use by December 31, 2004. Between 1994-1998, diazinon was responsible for more bird kill incidents in the U.S. than any other pesticide. Residential use of diazinon accounted for over half of these incidents.

Diazinon can enter the wastewater system via illegal dumping into toilets or drains. Boise= s treatment plants are not designed to remove substances such as pesticides. Improperly used or discharged pesticides eventually flow into the Boise River and threaten aquatic life.

It is also illegal to discharge pesticides or other toxic materials into storm drains which are designed solely for the conveyance of natural storm water and lead directly to the Boise River or underground water supplies. Lawn irrigation water, for example, should not be allowed to flow into storm drains because it conveys any pesticides on the lawn through the drain system.

Labels on pesticides containers explain the requirements for the legal use and disposal of pesticides. The EPA reminds citizens to read the labels on their pesticides and strictly follow instructions for lawful use and disposal. Labels for diazinon (also known as Sprectracide or other names) provide information on the environmental risks of improper use or disposal.

The EPA also urges consumers to investigate alternatives to diazinon. The pesticide is often used on lawns to treat crane flies and other pests which can be dealt with in a number of ways that minimize or eliminate the need to use costly and potentially hazardous pesticides. For more information on alternatives, consumers can call the Ada County Master Gardeners at 208/377-2107.

Pesticides and other toxic wastes can be disposed at any of the nine conveniently located household hazardous materials collection sites that have been established through a joint effort by Boise, Meridian, and Ada County (see the accompanying list of sites). Visit the city of Boise Web site at

www.cityofboise.org and click on the Public Works Department link to find the site most convenient to you.