Benefits assessment on insecticide azinphos methyl

U.S. EPA has posted an updated grower impacts assessment for the remaining uses of the organophosphate insecticide azinphos-methyl (AZM). According to a voluntary phase-out agreement from November 2006, use of AZM is being gradually phased out due to concerns about worker exposure and ecological effects. Consistent with the agreement, EPA is in the process of conducting a risk-benefit analysis to determine whether to maintain or amend the September 30, 2012, effective date for cancellation of the remaining AZM uses. EPA’s risk assessment, completed in connection with the 2006 decision, remains unchanged. The agency's recently revised analysis of the net costs to growers remains generally similar to the costs estimated in 2006. EPA expects to announce by September 30, 2012, a determination as to whether any changes in the cancellation order are warranted.