AgroPages-US re-registration eligibility decisions for plant growth regulators-Agricultural news

The US EPA has issued re-registration eligibility decisions (REDs) for the plant growth regulators, chlormequat chloride and mefluidide. The active ingredients are eligible for re-registration provided that certain risk mitigation measures are taken. The Agency has no concerns over dietary, residential or occupational exposure, but requires measures to address ecological risks from both ais.

Chlormequat chloride is registered for use on ornamentals in greenhouses, shadehouses and nurseries. The EPA has identified ecological risks to birds, reptiles, mammals, amphibians and fish. It requires the removal of multi-nozzle sprayer applications from labels to mitigate these risks. The technical registrant, BASF, must also provide further data in support of its 2006 outdoor use registration application by June 2009.

Mefluidide is registered by PBI/Gordon Corporation for use on turf and ornamentals. The EPA has concerns over risks to birds, mammals, and terrestrial and aquatic plants. It requires a number of label amendments to reduce spray drift and run-off. They are mainly restrictions on applications under certain weather conditions.