The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is taking public comment on a pilot project that would update pesticide guidelines to protect endangered species.
The initiative is part of the EPA’s Endangered Species Act Working Plan, which is an effort to get the agency back into compliance with the ESA.
Pesticide program specialist Andrew Thostenson with North Dakota State University Extension says the proposed updates in the pilot would change farming methods.
“There are certain conservation practices to prevent soil moisture and runoff, mitigation measures that might implement buffer zones around sensitive habitats.”
He says there are also restrictions for product applications if there is rain in the forecast within 48 hours.
