Canada extends insecticide phase-outs until 2012

The Canadian Pest Management Regulatory Agency (PMRA) has extended the use of American Vanguard's granular organophosphate insecticides, Thimet 15G (phorate) and Counter 15G (terbufos), until 2012. The extended phase-outs are necessary because of the lack of alternative products to control wireworms (Agriotes spp) in potatoes and sugar beet, respectively, the PMRA points out. The extensions depend on the registrant submitting annual sales data and on the continued involvement of stakeholders in the development of transition strategies to alternative control measures, the Agency adds. The schedule may be shortened if alternative products are registered.

Other uses of Thimet 15G ended in 2004, but an extended phase-out on potatoes was allowed because of the need for wireworm control. Similarly, other uses of Counter 15G were discontinued in 2004, but use on sugar beet was allowed to continue. The latest extensions permit registrant sales of both insecticides until December 31st 2011, with distribution and retail allowed until May 1st 2012. Use is due to end on August 1st 2012. American Vanguard acquired BASF's global terbufos business in 2006 and its phorate business in 2005.