![[logo] US EPA](../gif/logo_epaseal.gif){kind=logo}
AZM Transition Update - May 21, 2008
EPA and USDA continue to work together and co-lead a workgroup on AZM transition issues under the auspices of the EPA Pesticide Program Dialogue Committee (PPDC). The objectives and goals of this PPDC AZM Transition Issues Workgroup include:
- Identifying a framework for reasonable transition towards lower risk strategies, taking into account grower concerns over economic, trade and regulatory barriers to adoption of alternatives;
- Identifying ways to improve understanding of the critical grower needs and perspectives of all stakeholders regarding the transition;
- Identifying programs/mechanisms to provide reduced-risk pest management strategies and techniques to growers – including chemical and non-chemical alternatives to AZM;
- Recommending ways to assist growers in their good faith efforts as they try AZM alternatives and feasible, cost-effective techniques;
- Fostering transparency and public participation in decision-making; and,
- Providing process recommendations to ensure that AZM transition progress is tracked and assessed and reported back to the PPDC.
Accomplishments Since October 2007
- Worked with several stakeholder groups in the development of draft AZM transition strategies for Washington apples and Michigan blueberries, and a Pest Management Strategic Plan for Ohio parsley.
- Met with representatives of the California tree nut industry and Michigan fruit crops industries to discuss progress and issues arising during their respective transitions.
- Received draft transition strategies for Washington apples and one for Michigan blueberries. Both transition strategies are available on the AZM Workgroup Web site.
- Initiated a NAFTA project with Canada’s Pest Management Regulatory Agency (PMRA) to coordinate North American regulatory activities pertaining to the AZM transition.
| Alternative | Crops | Registered Date |
|---|---|---|
| Acetamiprid | Blueberries | January 2008 |
| Chlorantraniliprole* | Pome Fruit, Stone Fruit | April 2008 |
| Malathion | Parsley | January 2008 |
| Methoxyfenozide | Blueberries | March 2008 |
*Chlorantraniliprole was the subject of a global review involving the European Union, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and the United States. In addition, this compound is scheduled for review by the JMPR in 2008.