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Nevada hardware store pays $2,750 to settle pesticide violation

Release Date: 09/12/2007
Contact Information: Marc Mowrey, (415) 972.3324 mowrey.marc@epa.gov

SAN FRANCISCO -- In a recent settlement with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, a Reno, Nev. True Value Hardware store agreed to pay a $2,750 fine for selling a residential pesticide that contained chlorpyrifos, in violation of federal pesticide laws.

The settlement, stemming from March 2004 inspections conducted by the Nevada Department of Agriculture, resolves a complaint in which the EPA alleged that North Valleys True Value of Reno offered for sale Greenthumb Flea & Tick Killer, a pesticide designed for residential use that contains chlorpyrifos.

“The EPA removed chlorpyrifos from the residential market due to its potential health risks, especially to children.” said Katherine Taylor, associate director of the Communities and Ecosystems Division in EPA's Pacific Southwest Office. “Retailers selling pesticides to the general public must ensure those products are legal.”

Retail sales of most residential-use chlorpyrifos pesticides have been prohibited since Dec. 31, 2001. Consumers may still legally use remaining stocks of chlorpyrifos products, provided that they follow all label directions and precautions. Use of these products according to label directions does not pose an immediate hazard. However, consumers who choose to use these products or any pesticide should always take special care to read and follow the label precautions and directions.

Consumers may contact their local solid waste agency for disposal information.

For more information on pesticides, please visit: https://www.epa.gov/pesticides/

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