Volume 22, Number 2 Summer 2002 Pesticides and You News from Beyond Pesticides / National Coalition Against the Misuse of Pesticides (NCAMP)

Managing Mosquitoes Without Poisoning People

ChemicalWATCH Factsheet: DEET • Backyard Mosquito Management • Public Health Mosquito Management Strategy Letter from Washington Can Pesticides Have Public Health Benefits? Control of West Nile Virus Sparks Debate on Widespread Pesticide Use

his issue of Pesticides and You focuses on mosquito man- and controlling the immature stages before the mosquitoes agement and West Nile virus (WNv) because these are emerge as adults. This policy reduces the need for widespread T issues that may soon confront you and your commu- pesticide application in urban areas.” One of the problems that nity, if they haven’t already. WNv has now been found, either New York City reportedly ran into when WNv made its sur- in infected mosquitoes or birds, in 27 states and the District prise debut was the lack of a sound mosquito management of Columbia. It has been found up and down the east coast, in program that focused on prevention. the South, Midwest, and is expected to reach the west coast within a year or two. WNv first appeared in the U.S. in Sep- Prevention is the Best Strategy tember 1999 in New York City and was identified by public The lack of a prevention program leads to a heavy reliance on health officials as the cause of 7 deaths that summer. Symp- pesticide spray programs that target adult mosquitoes. Experts toms of WNv include mild flu-like effects, but can be deadly estimate that these spray programs hit less than 10 percent of the to older people and those with compromised immune systems. targeted spray area, actually increase the number of mosquitoes The source of WNv in the U.S. is not known. Some believe it by destroying their natural predators, and result in mosquitoes hitchhiked in through transcontinental travel, while others that are pesticide-resistant, longer-lived, more aggressive and carry say it was released from a research lab at Plum Island Animal more of the virus in their bodies. If managers do not focus on the Disease Center off of New York City, where their motto is, behavior of the specific mosquito species (how far does it fly from “Not once in our more than 40 years of operation has an ani- its breeding area) and the behavior of disease hosts (such as mi- gratory birds), spraying may occur in areas that do not contain mal pathogen escaped from Plum Island.” infected mosquitoes that are a threat. It is widely agreed that by Do Pesticide Benefits Outweigh Disease Risks? the time a human illness is diagnosed, spray programs are essen- tially worthless. Therefore, with information on the biology of The arrival of WNv has sparked a debate that has been brewing the insect, monitoring of infected mosquito pools is essential. for some time on the widespread use of pesticides for public In addition, this issue highlights research by Mohammed health protection. Certainly, pesticide promoters and many pub- Abou-Donia, Ph.D., of Duke University Medial Center, that lic health professionals see the widespread use of pesticides in identifies the harmful synergistic effects of mixing exposures the face of an insect-borne disease as a no-brainer. Concerned to a widely used adult mosquito insecticide, permethrin (as citizens put pressure on public officials to spray their commu- one example), with insect repellents containing the widely used nities against the threat of disease. With the presumption that ingredient DEET. Finally, there are serious issues associated pesticides present no- to low-risk, or that their “benefits out- with worker exposure and lack of training and protective weigh the risks,” spray programs go forward, mostly without equipment provided to those who conduct spray programs. any public notice or debate. The reality is that pesticides are harmful to human health Take Action and the environment and present a set of real risks of their With an understanding of all the complexities involved, as dis- own, which are discussed in this issue. Many argue, in the cussed in the centerpiece of this issue, the Public Health Mosquito case of WNv, that the risks of harm caused by pesticides are Management Strategy, communities can embrace meaningful prac- greater than those caused by the disease. Ironically, the very tices that reduce reliance on pesticides, utilize effective educa- same people who are at risk from WNv, because of compro- tion, prevention and monitoring, and only engage in narrow, tar- mised immune systems, are also in the highest risk group for geted spray programs as a last resort. Some states, like Connecti- pesticide poisoning. cut, and communities, like Nassau County, NY, have operated The problem with the debate on public health uses of pes- effective programs that may serve as ticides is the flawed assumption that conventional pesticides models. This issue is intended to are effective tools. With this assumption, less of our commu- serve as a tool to support local and nity, state and federal resources are put into prevention, or state action. Use the information to source reduction, through the management of breeding areas, contact your local public health of- which is discussed extensively in this issue. In fact, the Cen- ficial and help set in motion a strat- ters for Disease Control (CDC), despite a lack of attention to egy that avoids widespread pesticide the public health threat associated with pesticide exposure, use in your town. does say, “The underlying philosophy of mosquito control is based on the fact that the greatest control impact on mosquito populations will occur when they are concentrated, immobile —Jay Feldman executive director and accessible. This emphasis focuses on habitat management of Beyond Pesticides/NCAM Contents Contents 2 Mail Pesticides and You ©2002 (ISSN 0896- Invasion of the Moths; Community Members 7253), published 4 times a year by Rally for Safer Mosquito Management; Beyond Pesticides/National Coalition Against the Misuse of Pesticides (NCAMP), Reforming School Pest Management Practices is a voice for pesticide safety and alterna- tives. Beyond Pesticides/NCAMP is a non- 4 Washington, DC profit, tax-exempt membership organiza- tion; donations are tax-deductible. National Cancer Foundations Fail to Act on Known Cancer Risks; Federal Legislation National Headquarters: 701 E Street, SE, Calls for Funding to Protect Children from Washington DC 20003 Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals; Congress ph: 202-543-5450 fx: 202-543-4791 email: [email protected] Pulls $250 Million Subsidy for Pesticide In- website: www.beyondpesticides.org dustry from Farm Bill; EPA to Consult on Pes- Printed on recycled paper with soy ink page 6 ticide Harm to Endangered Species; Bill In- Articles in this newsletter may be troduced to Improve Environmental Health reproduced without Beyond Pesticides/ NCAMP’s permission unless otherwise Tracking; Bill Seeks to Classify CCA Treated noted. Please credit Beyond Pesticides/ Lumber as Hazardous Waste NCAMP for reproduced material. BEYOND PESTICIDES/NCAMP STAFF 6 Around the Country Jay Feldman, Executive Director Top-Selling Weed Killer Disrupts Sexual Kagan Owens, Program Director Toni Nunes, Special Projects Director Development in Frogs; Now There’s Proof: John Kepner, Program Associate Organic Foods DO Have Less Pesticide Resi- Terry Shistar, Ph.D., Science Consultant Becky Crouse, Public Education Coordinator dues; Health Canada to Ban Some DEET Prod- Meghan Taylor, Public Education Associate ucts; Pennsylvania Lawmakers Vote for Jessica Lunsford, Program Associate Cortney Piper, Intern Healthier Schools; Pesticides Used in Simu- lated Terrorist Attack; Washington State Bans PESTICIDES AND YOU Jay Feldman, Publisher, Editor Controversial Herbicide on Lawns Kagan Owens, Editor Meghan Taylor, Illustrator page 7 9 ChemicalWATCH Factsheet Free Hand Press, Typesetting Becky Crouse, Jay Feldman, John Kepner, DEET Jessica Lunsford, Kagan Owens, Toni Nunes, Meghan Taylor, Contributors 11 Backyard Mosquito Management BEYOND PESTICIDES/NCAMP BOARD Practices that do not poison you or the OF DIRECTORS environment Ruth Berlin, LCSW-C, Maryland Pesticide Network, Annapolis, MD By Becky Crouse Laura Caballero, Lideres Campesinas en California, Greenfield, CA Alan Cohen, Bio-Logical Pest 13 Managing Mosquitoes Without Management, Washington, DC Poisoning People Shelley Davis, Farmworker Justice Fund, Washington, DC What to do BEFORE pesticides or West Nile Lorna Donaldson-McMahon, Donaldson- Virus get to your neighborhood McMahon Family Farm, Tiptonville, TN Jay Feldman, Beyond Pesticides/NCAMP, Washington, DC 14 Public Health Mosquito Management Tessa Hill, Kids for Saving Earth World- wide, Plymouth, MN page 14 Strategy Lani Lamming, Ecological Services, Managing mosquitoes and insect-borne Alpine, WY diseases with safety in mind Nina Powers, Sarasota County Public Works, Sarasota, FL Paul Repetto, Horizon Organic Dairy 24 Resources Boulder, CO Terry Shistar, Ph.D., Kansas Chapter, Breast Cancer State of the Evidence: What is Sierra Club, Lawrence, KS the Connection Between Chemicals and Breast Gregg Small, Washington Toxics Cancer?; Learning Curve: Charting Progress Coalition, Seattle, WA Printed with soy-based inks on Allen Spalt, Agricultural Resources on Pesticide Use and the Healthy Schools Act; Center, Carrboro, NC Ecoprint Offset, and cover on Audrey Thier, Environmental Advocates, Quest™, both 100% post- Building Blocks for School IPM: A Least-toxic Albany, NY consumer waste and processed Structural Pest Management Manual Affiliations shown for informational purposes only chlorine free.

Vol. 22, No. 2, 2002 Pesticides and You Page 1 Beyond Pesticides/National Coalition Against the Misuse of Pesticides Mail lnvasion of the Moths you have taken care of the majority of the our street. The only exception on our infestation, they can be used to kill any left- block is a former Monsanto employee. Dear Beyond Pesticides, over moths and to monitor their population. We soon found out that our community Do you know any non-toxic ways to get If you notice an increase in the number of is the only one within St. Louis to do its rid of moths in the pantry? I have heard moths in your traps, it is time to inspect your own spraying. St. Louis takes care of ev- that some herbs will repel them, and I food again. Non-toxic pantry pest traps are ery other community. So our goal is to have heard that moth traps work. I just available from companies such as Victor get the entire Glendale area stopped, and don’t know where to find such products. Safer Brand (see www.victorpest.com for then St. Louis. These moths have ruined lots of expen- more information). They are available at We are looking for help in finding sive organic food! most retail stores. You can just leave only Missouri laws regarding signs in the yard your kitchen light on at night and capture in order to stop pesticide spraying. We Deb Brinker the stray moth when it comes out from its are also looking for laws pertaining to via email hiding spot to the light. notification requirements before spray- Once all of your winged friends are gone, ing, since we were sprayed several nights Dear Ms. Brinker: take preventive measures to keep any more that we were not notified about. Moths are frequent pests in kitchen cabinets. from visiting you. Store any food you buy Thank you so much for your wonder- The first thing you need to do when moths in tight containers. Regularly clean your ful website and the very important work have invaded your pantry and home is to get cabinets, counters, toaster oven and any- that you do. This site was the inspiration rid of any infested food. If you are lucky, the where else moths might feast. Clean out behind our action. moths have just recently entered your home containers that stored old food before re- and are concentrated at their source. All pack- filling with new food. Remember to keep Shelly Knichel ages and food must be carefully inspected for them sealed tight! Glendale, Missouri signs of infestation. Look for small holes in the packaging and webbing in the tighter ar- Dear Ms. Knichel: eas of the package. Seal up the infested pack- People Rally for Safer Thank you for your actions for pesticide reform. ages and discard the food in an outdoor can. Mosquito Management Keep up the great work! Unfortunately, Missouri Alternatively, you can actually kill moths in has no state regulations regarding prior notifi- your food by manipulating temperatures they Dear Beyond Pesticides, cation of community pesticide spraying. Many are exposed to. If you choose this method, just My daughter and I began researching states do require prior notification, but it may remember the moths’ bodies will remain in pesticide spraying in our area two years take different forms. For example, Alaska re- the food and must be sifted out afterwards. ago, as a home-school project. Our quires that notice of certain pesticide applica- Storing food in your freezer for three weeks project was sparked by a truck that tions be published in local newspapers. Iowa does will guarantee killing the moths. You can re- passed our house every Thursday not require notification for community pes- ally play it safe by storing susceptible foods night, from Memorial Day to ticide applications as long as a “conspicu- in your refrigerator for several months after Labor Day, spraying ous” public announcement is made, detecting moths in your cabinets. This includes pesticides. My daughter such as on a major grains, crackers, flour, spices and even pet asked me why, and I TV or radio station, food. Heating also works. 130 degrees Fahr- suggested that we find 24 hours prior. New enheit for two hours should do the trick. out. We discovered Jersey requires seven Once the food in your pantry is moth-free, permethrin is being to 30 day prior no- thoroughly clean the infested area. Use soap sprayed to target mos- tification to people and hot water in your pantry, paying special quitoes. We have wit- living in the vicinity attention to corners and crevices. Take all cans nessed spraying in- of the targeted area. out and wash them as well to kill any micro- consistent with the In Maine, you can scopic larvae. Vacuum any infested areas in manufacturer’s label, request notification for the kitchen. Caulk and seal areas in your pan- such as during rain and when wind was pesticide applications that will affect your prop- try where crumbs may fall into and stay for a blowing more than 10 miles per hour. erty or any other sensitive area. Pennsylvania while. Make sure pantry shelves fit flush Today we have an interview with the man has a notification registry for residents that against the wall. Also, be sure areas that at- in charge of the spraying. have medical documentation of sensitivities to tract crumbs, such as in the toaster, stay clean. Our neighbors have recently joined us such applications. Monitor the problem after your clean-up. in our efforts with great enthusiasm. The It is important that you report the misap- Every day you should check door and cabi- word has spread, and now everyone on plications you witnessed to your local and state net frames for lurking moths or cocoons. our street has agreed to put up signs and pesticide regulatory agencies. The petition you Pheromone traps come in handy here. After to sign a petition to stop the spraying on mentioned is a great idea. Outreach to neigh-

Page 2 Pesticides and You Vol. 22, No. 2, 2002 Beyond Pesticides/National Coalition Against the Misuse of Pesticides edited by Meghan Taylor bors is one of the first steps, and an extremely equipment. Would you be able to refer control company, make it clear you would like important one at that, to making a difference me to a true IPM specialist in our area? only non-toxic or, if necessary, least-toxic means in your community. Approaching members in I have been unable to find a source for of pest management. Be persistent with your re- your community about pesticides can be very alternative products to control yellow quest. If you are unsure about a product or touchy. It is always good to broach the subject jackets, mice and ants. chemical a company is planning to use, check in an easy-going manner, using common sense Additionally, we are about to double out its toxicity at www.beyondpesticides. org, or points. Attacking neighbors and friends with the size of our existing school building contact Beyond Pesticides for more information. scientific jargon can be both intimidating and this spring. I believe this would be a great In your search for a company, see the Safety confusing for them. By emphasizing the human time to dust the open walls with boric Source for Pest Management on the Beyond health threats, especially those posed to chil- acid and/or diatomaceous earth as a pre- Pesticides website. This is a directory of lawn dren, people may be more willing to consider ventive measure. Is my thinking appro- care and pest control companies that use some your point of view. Another subject that grabs priate or flawed? or all non-toxic or least-toxic management attention is money. Preventive measures are strategies. The directory is ideal for you to see almost always cheaper than using toxic chemi- Maria Davis all the options a company makes available. You cals. Yard signs are another great way to make Murrysville, PA will be able to see what chemicals different com- a statement about the dangers pesticides pose. panies use, how toxic they are, along with the Contact Beyond Pesticides for further informa- least toxic and non-toxic methods. If you have tion on talking to your neighbors about pes- found a good company that you don’t see listed, ticides, or signs for your lawn. please tell us about it! When you approach your city’s pes- Your suggestion to use boric acid and des- ticide regulatory agency about the mos- iccating dusts as a preventive measure is cer- quito spraying, try presenting less toxic tainly appropriate. Prevention and monitor- alternatives to its current use of ing decrease the potential use of more toxic permethrin. You can read up on this and pesticides further down the road. This will other things your community can do to help the ant problem you mentioned. Mice combat mosquitoes safely in this issue of infestations are best taken care of with struc- Pesticides and You. Another resource is Be- tural modifications and mechanical controls yond Pesticides’ West Nile Virus Organiz- such as traps. Yellow jackets can be managed ing Manual ($10 ppd), which contains help- with cultural controls, such as tightly fitted gar- ful information about chemical toxicity of Dear Ms. Davis, bage dumpster lids which should be monitored mosquito spraying, alternatives, and commu- Companies claiming to practice IPM while daily and emptied frequently. A great resource nity organizing to achieve success. at the same time using toxic chemicals are for IPM practices for these and other common not uncommon. They are not implementing pests is Beyond Pesticides’ Building Blocks For true IPM. Beyond Pesticides defines IPM as School IPM: A Least-Toxic Structural Pest Reforming School a program that includes three major com- Management Manual ($15 ppd). Contact Be- Pest Management ponents: (a) eliminates or mitigates economic yond Pesticides to order a copy. and health damage caused by pests; (b) mini- Dear Beyond Pesticides, mizes the use of pesticides and the risk to I am attempting to educate the princi- human health and the environment associ- Write Us! pal at our local school about the use of ated with pesticide applications; and, (c) uses Whether you love us, disagree with integrated pest management (IPM). The integrated methods, site or pest inspections, us or just want to speak your mind, school has problems mainly with yel- pest population monitoring, an evaluation we want to hear from you. All mail low jackets and ants. Mice are also caus- of the need for pest control, and one or more must have a day time phone and ing some trouble. I am trying to con- pest control methods. These methods include verifiable address. Space is limited tact an IPM provider for the school. The sanitation, structural repairs, mechanical so some mail may not be printed. principal is planning a possible “power and living biological controls, and other non- Mail that is printed will be edited for length and clarity. Please address spray” soon and I am trying to persuade chemical methods. If non-toxic options are your mail to: her to use alternate methods. However, unreasonable and have been exhausted, the I cannot find an appropriate business least-toxic pesticides may be used. Beyond Pesticides/NCAMP in our area. She contacted another com- Because there is no standard definition, IPM 701 E Street, SE pany that seems to incorporate some can mean virtually anything the practitioner Washington, DC 20003 IPM principles, but I am uncomfortable wants it to mean. Unfortunately, there are fax: 202-543-4791 email: [email protected] with his intent to spray the school chemical dependent companies that masquer- www.beyondpesticides.org grounds, including the playground ade as IPM practitioners. When you call a pest

Vol. 22, No. 2, 2002 Pesticides and You Page 3 Beyond Pesticides/National Coalition Against the Misuse of Pesticides Washington, DC

National Cancer has long supported the chlorine indus- try in its continued defense of the use Foundations Fail of chlorinated pesticides. Despite To Act on Known dramatically increasing their bud- gets, both organizations continue to Cancer Risks spend negligible amounts to warn the public of avoidable cancer risks, While national cancer foundations have according to Drs. Epstein and the potential to help millions of people, Young.”Read the press statement at their lack of focus on prevention and http://www.prnewswire.com, search for carcinogens in the environment, includ- “Epstein.” ing pesticides, has drawn criticism from the environmental and public health communities. In a recent statement, Federal Legislation Samuel S. Epstein, M.D., chairman of the cals that block, mimic, or otherwise in- Cancer Prevention Coalition and Profes- Calls for Funding To terfere with naturally produced hor- sor Emeritus of Environmental and Oc- Protect Children from mones, which control how an organism cupational Medicine, University of Illi- develops and functions. Since the nois School of Public Health, and Endocrine Disrupting 1970s, the incidence of childhood can- Quentin D. Young, M.D., chairman of the Chemicals cers, learning disabilities, autism, dia- Health and Medicine Policy Research betes, early puberty, and abnormal pe- Group, charge that major national can- U.S. Representative Louise Slaughter nile development has increased sub- cer foundations, including the National (D-NY) has introduced legislation to stantially. At the same time, evidence Cancer Institute (NCI) and the Ameri- substantially increase federal research linking these disorders with exposure can Cancer Society (ACS), have long ig- on hormone disrupting chemicals. The to hormone disrupting chemicals has nored dramatic increases in childhood Hormone Disruption Research Act of 2002 continued to mount. “What is espe- cancer rates. Since the U.S. declared the (H.R. 4709) would authorize up to $500 cially troubling is that children are ex- “war on cancer” in 1971, childhood can- million for the National Institute of En- posed to these chemicals in the womb cers have increased by 26% overall. Rates vironmental Health Sciences (NIEHS) to and shortly after birth—periods of of some specific cancers have increased conduct and coordinate a five-year re- rapid development. It’s time for preven- even more dramatically — acute lympho- search program on hormone disruption. tion,” said Dr. Colborn. “President cyte leukemia by 62%, brain cancer by NIEHS would also be required to pro- Bush has urged the country to not 50%, and bone cancer by 40%. The doc- vide public reports on the extent to ‘leave any child behind.’ This research tors charge that the which hormone- ultimately will help all children reach federal NCI and the disrupting chemi- their full potential.” ACS have, “failed to cals pose a threat inform the public, to human health let alone Congress and the environ- Congress Pulls $250 and regulatory ment. “This legis- Million Subsidy for agencies, of this lation is long over- alarming informa- due. Not one Pesticide lndustry tion. As impor- chemical in use to- from Farm Bill tantly, they have day has been ad- failed to publicize equately tested for If you were the pesticide industry, well-documented its ability to un- where would you hide $250 million? scientific informa- dermine the con- Well, they tried to sneak it in as a sub- tion on avoidable causes responsible for struction of children’s bodies and sidy in the massive $180 billion Farm the increased incidence of childhood brains,” said Theo Colborn, Ph.D., di- Security and Rural Investment Act of cancer,” which include pesticides and rector of World Wildlife Fund’s Wild- 2002 (Farm Bill), but failed during the other synthetic chemicals. The consump- life and Contaminants Program and co- final moments of negotiations. The tion of non-organic foods containing pes- author of Our Stolen Future. “There is provision sought to waive fees to be ticide residues and the treatment of lice an urgent need to support innovative re- paid by the industry established by and scabies with the pesticide and hu- search designed to identify hazards that Congress in the Food Quality Protection man carcinogen lindane are also impor- traditional toxicology has missed.” Hor- Act (FQPA) to cover the cost of pesti- tant. The statement charges that the ASC mone disruptors are synthetic chemi- cide registration and safety reviews.

Page 4 Pesticides and You Vol. 22, No. 2, 2002 Beyond Pesticides/National Coalition Against the Misuse of Pesticides by John Kepner

The provision, originally contained in Service (FWS) on specific uses of eigh- disease that afflict communities like Subtitle D of the Senate Farm bill, fell teen pesticides in California. These pes- Fallon, Nevada and Long Island, NY. below the radar of budget buster ticides, which include chlorpyrifos, And once we are able to track these dis- watchers when drafters included only diazinon, atrazine, glyphosate eases, and detect links to environmen- a one-month authorizing period, thus (Roundup), and 2,4-D, will be analyzed tal or other causes, we will be able to enabling chemical industry backers to for effects in one or more of these usage attack the problem and ultimately pre- hide the bill’s budgetary impact. When sites in the habitat of each of the seven vent public health problems before they it was brought to light that backers salmon species and 33 forest plants that occur,” said Senator Clinton.” Thus far, planned to extend the authorizing pe- collectively are named in the settlement. states have been in charge of setting up riod for five years, the provision was “These species are close to extinction their own tracking systems. Since the pulled. However, just days after their and pesticides continue to pollute their quality and extent of each state pro- defeat in the Farm Bill, industry lob- habitat, but the EPA hasn’t even begun gram varies, it is difficult to link to- byists were back on Capitol Hill look- to take action to protect them. How can gether each state’s data in order to un- ing for a new vehicle to place their fi- an endangered species survive if the ef- derstand causes of chronic diseases. nancial burden on the American tax- fect of widely used pesticides isn’t taken payer. “It would be a travesty if Con- into account?” said Patty Clary of Cali- Bill Seeks To Classify gress further subsidizes an industry fornians for Alternatives to Toxics that produces hazardous pesticides that (CATs), the lead plaintiff group. “We CCA Treated Lumber can be replaced by less toxic alterna- welcome the EPA’s resolve to take these as Hazardous Waste tives,” said Jay Feldman, executive di- first important steps to protect some of rector of Beyond Pesticides. “Taxpay- the nation’s most highly valued and Because of a loophole in federal law, pres- ers should not have to pay the pesti- imperiled wildlife species from the ef- sure treated wood is not required to be cide industry’s bills.” fects of pesticides.” disposed of as hazardous waste. Under- standing that disposal is an important fac- EPA To Consult on Bill lntroduced To tor in the pressure-treated wood debate, U.S. Representative Jan Schakowsky (D- Pesticide Harm to lmprove Environmen- IL) introduced The Arsenic Treated Lum- Endangered Species tal Health Tracking ber Prohibition and Disposal Act on May 10, 2002. The act phases-out the use of When Europeans first settled the Ameri- On March 21, 2002, Senators Hillary arsenic treated lumber in residential set- can West, they sent letters home de- Clinton (D-NY) and Harry Reid (D-NV) tings; requires the disposal of arsenic- scribing rivers so full of spawning introduced the National Health Tracking treated lumber in lined landfills with salmon that you could cross the river Act of 2002, legislation that would set leachate and groundwater monitoring sys- by walking on their backs. Now the up a national environmental health tems; requires EPA to conduct a risk as- numbers of this once vibrant population tracking system. The legislation is the sessment regarding arsenic; and, provides are dwindling, with many salmon runs product of several Congres- monetary assistance to on the Endangered or Threatened Spe- sional hearings, including schools and local cies Lists. Large hydroelectric dams and two held in communities communities. loss of habitat play a large role in the suffering from a concen- Railroad ties and decline, but contamination from pesti- trated and unexplained piers are exempt in cide runoff is also significant. Until re- outbreak of chronic the legislation. Al- cently, EPA ignored endangered salmon diseases. These two though EPA has when it registered pesticides for use in field hearings, held worked out a deal the region. However, on April 19, 2002, in Fallon, NV and with the pressure EPA settled with three California envi- Long Island, NY, treated wood indus- ronmental groups that brought suit for looked for possible try to phase-out not consulting with other government environmental many uses of treated agencies on the effects of pesticides on links to cancer in the lumber products by De- endangered salmon and other imperiled communities and resulted in a firm rec- cember 31, 2003, Representative species, as required by the Endangered ommendation for establishing a nation- Schakowsky believes that the agreement Species Act (ESA). According to the wide tracking network for chronic dis- is inadequate and her legislation is needed settlement, EPA must consult with the eases. “[The National Health Tracking to ensure that the industry would be National Marine Fisheries Service Act] will help get to the bottom of the required by law to phase out this danger- (NMFS) and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife mystery behind high rates of chronic ous product.

Vol. 22, No. 2, 2002 Pesticides and You Page 5 Beyond Pesticides/National Coalition Against the Misuse of Pesticides Around the Country

(but later made an on-air apology for fab- ricating the data)? Although common sense would suggest crops coated in toxic, carcinogenic chemicals would have more residue on the final product, until now there have been no “scientific” studies proving this is the case. Accord- ing to a study by Consumers Union (CU), the publisher of Consumer Reports magazine, and the Organic Materials Re- search Institute (OMRI), published in the May 8, 2002 issue of the peer-reviewed journal Food Additives and Contaminants, organic foods do have less pesticide resi- due than conventional foods. The study, which used U.S. Department of Agricul- ture (USDA) data, shows that 73 percent of conventionally grown foods have at Top-Selling Weed findings come at a time when EPA is re- least one pesticide residue, while only 23 evaluating allowable levels of atrazine in percent of organically Killer Disrupts drinking water, which stand today at grown samples of the same Sexual Development three parts per billion (ppb), and has crops have any residues. drafted new criteria for the protec- When they exclude resi- in Frogs tion of aquatic life, limiting four- dues of persistent, long- day average exposures to 12 While giving a talk on endocrine disrup- banned organochlo- ppb. Hayes found hermaphro- tion at a Beyond Pesticides conference, rine insecti- ditism in frogs at levels as University of Florida Zoologist Lou cides such as low as 0.1 ppb. Even with Guillette said, “When you want to get the DDT from their today’s limits, 40 ppb attention of politicians in Washington, analysis of the atrazine has been mea- DC, talk about penis size.” Environmen- USDA data, the sured in rain and spring talists hope that a recent study out of the fraction of or- water in parts of the University of California (UC) at Berke- ganic samples Midwest, as well as in ley, which finds that the nation’s top-sell- with residues agricultural runoff. ing weed killer, atrazine, disrupts the drops from 23 to sexual development of frogs at concen- 13 percent. The re- trations 30 times lower than allowed by Now There’s maining residues the Environmental Protection Agency Proof: Organic Foods on organic produce are most likely due (EPA), will do just that. In an article pub- to pesticide drift. For a summary of the lished in the April 16 issue of Proceedings DO Have Less study see www.consumer.org. of the National Academy of Sciences, (vol. Pesticide Residues 99, no. 8), UC Berkeley developmental en- Health Canada To docrinologist Tyrone B. Hayes reports that Health-conscious shoppers around the atrazine, at levels often found in the en- country have always known that buying Ban Some DEET vironment, demasculinizes tadpoles and organic is better for their families, the Products turns them into hermaphrodites – crea- environment and farmworkers. Yet there tures with both male and female sexual have always been those in the media Canada, a country where the mosquito characteristics. The herbicide also lowers doubting the health and environmental is often referred to as the national bird, testosterone levels in sexually mature benefits of organic food. Remember recently announced that it intends male frogs by a factor of ten. “Atrazine- when ABC’s 20/20 news reporter John to phase-out insect repellents contain- exposed frogs do not have normal repro- Stossel claimed organic produce had the ing more than 30% of the active ductive systems,” Dr. Hayes said. “The same amount of pesticide residue as con- ingredient DEET (N,N-diethyl-meta- males have ovaries in their testes and ventional produce and suggested that or- toluamide) by December 2004. Health much smaller vocal organs,” which are es- ganic produce may actually be more dan- Canada, the agency of the Canadian sential in calling potential mates. The gerous because of e-coli contamination government charged with promoting

Page 6 Pesticides and You Vol. 22, No. 2, 2002 Beyond Pesticides/National Coalition Against the Misuse of Pesticides by John Kepner good health among its citizens, cites signed into law by Governor Mark Pesticides Used health risks and evidence that increas- Schweiker (R), specifically requires that ing the amount of DEET does not re- schools post notification signs 72 hours in Simulated pel insects more effectively as reasons prior to indoor and outdoor applications Terrorist Attack for the decision. Products mixing sun- and remain posted for 48 hours, provide screen and insect repellent will also be 72 hour universal prior notification to As Mile High Stadium in Denver, CO barred because of the potential to ab- school staff, and gives schools the op- crumbled, emergency response crews ar- sorb too much of the pesticide while tion whether to provide a registry or uni- rived on the scene only to be over- lathering on the lotion. Recent studies versal system of notification to parents. whelmed by the second phase of the at- on U.S. soldiers and park employees The Act also prohibits pesticide applica- tack. Malathion, a highly toxic organo- using DEET regularly found evidence tions within seven hours of students oc- phosphate pesticide, had been packed of such skin reactions as large, painful cupying the school building or using into the bomb that had exploded in the blisters, rashes and a numb sensation school grounds. While school pesticide stadium. While this was only a simula- on the lips. Park employees in tion set up by the city to test and train Florida using DEET heavily were emergency response teams respond- more likely to have insomnia, ing to a terrorist attack, govern- mood disturbances, and im- ment officials realize the danger paired cognitive functions. of toxic chemicals, like pesti- Researchers have also re- cides, and the ease with which corded several instances of they can be obtained. Accord- brain problems in children, ing to the Washington Post, with the most severe cases the simulated attack in Den- involving seizures, coma ver was timed to coincide with and death. Because of dan- the final stages of the demoli- gerous synergistic interac- tion of Mile High Stadium, the tions, Duke University professor former home of the National Mohammed Abou-Donia, Ph.D., Football League’s Denver Broncos. warns that DEET should not be mixed activists favor universal notification, Mayor Wellington E. Webb decided that with any chemicals, including medica- they agree that the Pesticide Notification the stadium’s destruction could provide tions. The U.S. Environmental Protec- Act is a necessary improvement over the an ideal backdrop for a weekend of ex- tion Agency (EPA) decided recently not old state policy. “Studies have shown ercises testing the region’s ability to re- to tighten the regulations on DEET. For that many of the pesticides used in spond to terrorists and weapons of mass a ChemicalWATCH factsheet on DEET, schools can have both short and long destruction. To help prevent such an in- see pages 9-10. term health effects that range from cident, Maryland State Delegate Dan headaches, nausea and diarrhea to learn- Morhaim proposed legislation, Restricted Pennsylvania ing disabilities, cancer and birth defects. Use Pesticides – Use and Access (HB There are about 15,000 809), that would help prevent Lawmakers Vote for Pennsylvania children pesticides from being Healthier Schools who experience at used as weapons. The least one asthma at- bill, which was sup- On April 17, 2002, after nine years of tack in the course ported by the grassroots organizing and lobbying by of a year,” said Rob- Maryland Pesticide pesticide activists and concerned parents, ert Wendelgass, Network and Be- the Pennsylvania General Assembly Pennsylvania Di- yond Pesticides, re- passed the Pesticide Notification Act (HB rector for Clean quired that anyone 1289 and SB 705), which requires Water Action and having access to re- schools to adopt integrated pest manage- coordinator of the stricted use pesti- ment (IPM) and provide notification of Campaign to Reduce cides (RUP) have a crimi- pesticide applications. According to the Pesticide Exposure in nal background check, appli- Beyond Pesticides report, The Schooling Schools. “The Pesticide Notification Act cators of RUPs act under the instructions of State Pesticide Laws 2002 Update, will help parents, teachers and school and control and within visual or voice Pennsylvania is now one of 11 states that officials protect these students from the contact of a certified applicator, and any- require school districts to adopt IPM pro- known asthma attack trigger of pesti- one purchasing, mixing or loading RUPs grams. The bill, which was immediately cide exposure.” be certified. The Maryland Farm Bureau

Vol. 22, No. 2, 2002 Pesticides and You Page 7 Beyond Pesticides/National Coalition Against the Misuse of Pesticides Around the Country by John Kepner opposes the bill because it says that it seriously damage non-target plants. Evi- other aquatic life. Five species of would be too difficult to restrict dence shows that when clopyralid-tainted salmon are present in Willapa Bay, as farmworker access to the chemicals, compost is used to enrich soils, it can well as cutthroat trout. Coho in Willapa which are often stored in the same or harm certain flowers, such as asters and Bay are candidates for Endangered Spe- nearby facilities used by workers as sunflowers. Damage also has been found cies Act listing, and listing of cutthroat housing.The Maryland Pest Control with vegetables, such as beans, peas and trout has been proposed. Carbaryl has Association lead the charge against tomatoes. Residue testing of compost at a number of effects on salmon and trout, the legislation, saying employee back- the facilities revealed clopyralid levels be- including impaired growth and repro- ground checks are unnecessary and other tween 73 and 80 ppb. These levels have ductive success, bone abnormalities, safety provisions are too costly. See the potential to damage crops, gardens and disruption of schooling behavior. www.beyondpesticides.org for a copy of the and nurseries. The resulting occurrence It is also certain to affect their food sup- legislation which could be introduced in of revenue losses, claim settlements, test- ply. Burrowing shrimp are considered a state legislatures across the country. ing and additional labor cost one facility problem for oyster production because at the University of Washington $250,000. they make the tideflats too soft for “bot- tom culture,” or oyster production di- Washington State Oyster Growers rectly on the tideflats. Many oyster Bans Controversial growers, however, use production meth- Propose Spraying ods that do not rely on pesticides by Herbicide on Lawns Pesticides To Kill keeping oysters off the tideflat surface. While compost is usually seen as a natu- Native Shrimp ral alternative to chemical fertilizers, Welcome many communities were surprised to find The Willapa Bay/Grays Harbor Oyster that their local compost supplies were Growers Association of Washington contaminated with the persistent herbi- State wants to spray more than three cide clopyralid, making the compost toxic tons of the pesticide carbaryl onto the to many of their garden plants. The her- tidelands of Willapa Bay and Grays Har- bicide, which has been at the center of bor in order to control native shrimp the GrassRoots Recycling Network’s that are considered a problem for oys- (GRRN) ‘Confront Dow’ campaign (see ter production. Despite the con- “Herbicides Threaten Recycling Indus- cerns of local residents, in- try” in the Winter 2001-2002 issue of cluding other oyster grow- Pesticides and You), has been found ers who produce oysters in compost made from recycled without pesticides and the grass, straw, and manure in Shoalwater Bay Tribe, the California, Washington, Washington State De- Pennsylvania, and New partment of Ecology has e would like to wel- Zealand. To address the now issued a draft come the most recent issue, the Washington “special local need” Waddition to the Beyond Department of Agricul- permit that opponents Pesticides staff. Jessica Lunsford, ture banned the use of say violates the Clean our new program associate, joins the herbicide clopyralid Water Act and allows us with a Masters of Science in on lawns and turf. “This the oyster growers to Public Health (MSPH) from the ban is meant to keep clip- pollute water with huge Tulane School of Public Health pings from grass that has been quantities of the pesticide. If and Tropical Medicine, with an treated with clopyralid from be- the final permit allows the spray, emphasis in environmental health ing sent to municipal and commercial Willapa Bay and Grays Harbor would be science and environmental policy compost facilities,” said Cliff Weed, man- the only place in the country where and a B.S. in anthropology and in ager of the Pesticide Compliance Program spraying carbaryl into water or on tide- environmental studies from for the Washington Department of Agri- lands is allowed. Carbaryl, a suspected Tulane University. culture. “We focused on grass clippings endocrine disruptor and reproductive We would also like to wel- because they are the major source of con- toxicant, is harmful to both people and come our summer interns, taminated materials.” Clopyralid, the ac- animals. Because its use in Willapa Bay Cortney Piper and Asheesh tive ingredient in the herbicide Confront, results in such high concentrations, it Siddique. is mobile in soil and water allowing it to poses a particular threat to salmon and

Page 8 Pesticides and You Vol. 22, No. 2, 2002 Beyond Pesticides/National Coalition Against the Misuse of Pesticides C hemicalWATCH Factsheet A BEYOND PESTICIDES/NCAMP FACTSHEET DEET

What is DEET? D carcinogen (not classifiable as to human carcinogenicity). Fur- DEET (N, N-diethyl-m-toluamide) is a commonly used, yet con- ther animal testing data is needed to completely evaluate DEET. troversial, insect repellent applied in and around domestic dwell- (NPTN, 2000) ings, to the human body and clothing, cats, dogs, horses, and Duke Medical University pharmacologist Mohamed Abou- pet living and sleeping quarters. Scientists have raised concerns Donia, Ph.D. conducted numerous studies in rats, two of them about DEET’s toxic properties when used alone and in combina- published in 2001, which clearly demonstrate that frequent and tion with other chemicals. prolonged applications of DEET cause neurons to die in regions Repellents are the only registered pesticides intended to be of the brain that control muscle movement, learning, memory applied directly to human skin. DEET is used to control biting and concentration. Rats treated with an average human dose of flies, biting midges, black flies, chiggers, deer flies, fleas, gnats, DEET (40 mg/kg body weight) performed far worse than con- horse flies, mosquitoes, no-see-ums, sand flies, small flying in- trol rats when challenged with physical tasks requiring muscle sects, stable flies, and ticks. There are currently 225 DEET prod- control, strength and coordination - effects consistent with physi- ucts registered by the EPA. (EPA, 1998) cal symptoms in humans reported in the medical literature, es- Scientists are not completely certain how DEET repels biting pecially by Persian Gulf War veterans. With heavy exposure to insects, but it most likely affects DEET and other insecticides, insects’ ability to locate animals humans may experience they feed upon. Scientists be- The Dos and Don’ts of DEET memory loss, headache, weak- lieve that DEET disturbs the ness, fatigue, muscle and joint function of special receptors in EPA requires that child safety claims be removed from all pain, tremors and shortness of mosquito antennae that sense end-use product labels, as they are misleading and irrecon- breath. (Duke, 2002) chemicals that are produced by cilable with the intended use and pesticidal ingredients of Adverse human effects, in- humans and other animals. DEET products, and that all DEET labels inform users to cluding skin hypersensitivity (NPTN, 2000) take the following precautions: and eye irritations, have been ■ Do not allow young children to apply this product; reported. DEET is absorbed DEET Toxicity ■ Do not apply near children’s hands or face; quickly through intact skin; In studies using laboratory ani- 48% of the applied dose is to- ■ Apply only enough to cover exposed skin and/or clothing; mals, DEET generally has been tally absorbed within six hours. ■ shown to be of low acute toxic- Do not apply over cuts, wounds and irritated skin; Accumulation on skin has been ity, which makes sense since it is ■ Thoroughly wash all treated skin with soap and water demonstrated. (NIH, 1990) directly applied to the skin. The after returning indoors; Dermal application of insect re- ■ oral rat LD50 (lethal dose for half Wash treated clothes before wearing again; and, pellents containing DEET can of the test population) is two g/ ■ Do not spray aerosol forms inside. (EPA, 1998) produce a variety of skin reac- kg of body weight, requiring ex- tions in humans. Cases of local- tremely high levels of exposure. ized skin irritation, large pain- (NIH, 1990) Therefore, toxicity concerns, with some notable ex- ful blisters, and permanent scarring of the skin at the crease of ceptions, focus on more subtle impacts on human health. the elbow has been reported in soldiers who applied solutions of DEET is slightly toxic by the eye, dermal and oral routes and 50 to 75 percent DEET. Results from surveys of Everglades Na- has been placed in EPA’s Toxicity Category III, slightly toxic, (the tional Park employees indicate a variety of dermal reactions, in- second lowest of four categories) for these effects. (EPA, 1998) cluding rashes, irritation of skin and mucous membranes, and Animals topically exposed to DEET have developed ocular and numb or burning sensations of the lips among park workers who dermal reactions, including erythema, desquamation, and scar- were highly exposed to DEET-containing repellents. Field trials ring in horses; profuse sweating, irritation and exfoliation in of a 60% DEET formulation on 600 lumbermen resulted in cases horses; and ocular reactions in rabbits including edema, tear- of contact dermatitis, conjunctivitis, and aggravation of pre-ex- ing, conjunctivitis, pus, and clouding in the eyes. (NYDOH, 1991) isting acne conditions. Several cases of young children develop- Animal experiments indicate that DEET crosses the placenta, ing toxic encephalopathy (severe brain involvement) have been and that it is found in the placenta and fetus and in rats three associated with the use of DEET, including one death, following months after birth. (NIH, 1990) repeated exposure to 10% DEET. The toxic encephalopathy was Studies have shown that DEET causes adverse effects in lab characterized by agitation, weakness, disorientation, ataxia, animals at high doses, including reduced body weights of pups siezures, coma and death. (NYDOH, 1991) and increased mortality rates of unborn and baby rats. It does Generalized seizures have also been temporally associated not cause birth defects in rats and rabbits, except when fed high with the use of DEET containing insect repellent on skin. Signs doses. Rats and mice did not develop cancer when fed high doses and symptoms of more subtle neurotoxicity have been associ- of DEET over their lifetime. EPA has classified DEET as a group ated with extensive dermal application of DEET on adults, in-

Vol. 22, No. 2, 2002 Pesticides and You Page 9 Beyond Pesticides/National Coalition Against the Misuse of Pesticides cluding insomnia, mood disturbances and impaired cognitive lents on infants, and beware of using them on children in gen- function. (NYDOH, 1991) eral. Never combine insecticides with each other or use them In 1987, a rash of pet poisonings and deaths following the with other medications. Even so simple a drug as an antihista- use of Hartz Blockade™, a flea and tick spray with a formulation mine could interact with DEET to cause toxic side effects. Don’t of 8.5% DEET and 0.45% fenvalerate, resulted in a recall by Hartz spray your yard for bugs and then take medications. Until we Mountain. EPA calculated that a single one-ounce application of have more data on potential interactions in humans, safe is bet- EPA-registered Hartz Blockade™ to a cat constituted a dose ter than sorry.” (Duke, 2002) equivalent to the oral rat LD50, and that cats, especially kittens, are more sensitive than rats to DEET. As a result, EPA now re- Environmental Fate quires additional warnings on the label. (Streitfeld, 1991) One Because EPA has categorized DEET to be an “indoor residen- veterinary textbook refers to seven reports of cat poisonings af- tial” use pesticide, a limited set of toxicity data is required to ter DEET exposure, resulting in seizures, tremors, vomiting, and determine precautionary label statements and for assessing envi- ataxia and lethargy in several cases. ronmental fate and hazards in case of spills. In the soil, DEET Mice eliminate the majority of DEET absorbed through their breaks down fairly slowly and has a moderate potential to move skin in one to three days, but trace amounts of DEET were dis- through soil and into the groundwater. (NPTN, 2000) covered in the mouse tissue one to three months after applica- tion. (NPTN, 2000) In humans, DEET can penetrate through Regulatory History human skin, and, once in the body, it is eliminated in the urine. DEET was registered in 1957 with limited health and safety in- Peak concentrations in the urine occur several hours after appli- formation. Since EPA began reviewing DEET for health and en- cation. (NPTN, 2000) vironmental effects in the 1980’s, the evaluation has been slow and incomplete. A December 1980 Registration Standard, EPA iden- Synergistic Effects tified the need for additional carcinogenicity, teratogenicity, re- Dr. Abou-Donia’s two most recent studies focus on mixtures of productive effects and mutagenicity data that, to this day, are DEET with other chemicals commonly used in conjunction with incomplete. The Chemical Specialties Manufacturers Association DEET. The first studied the effects of two-months of daily skin (CSMA) had, at the time, formed a “DEET Steering Committee” applications with a mixture of DEET and permethrin, an insecti- and successfully negotiated with EPA the waiver of some of these cide commonly used in mosquito control (Abou-Donia, 2001, data requirements. Exper. Neurol.). The second studied the effects of 60 days of expo- In addition, the agency relaxed its prohibition against the sure to DEET and permethrin, and 15 days of exposure to registration of any DEET formulation that exhibits adverse ef- pyridostigmine bromide, an anti-nerve gas agent. Rats experi- fects on the cornea. Whereas previously those formulations per- enced severe brain and behavioral deficits (Abou-Donia, 2001, J. sisting seven days or more were illegal, now 21 days or longer is of Toxicol. & Enviro. Health, 2001). In each study, the treated ani- considered acceptable. By July 1988, the registrants had yet to mals initially appeared to be normal, but, when challenged with even begin the required 4 1/2 year carcinogenicity studies. At neurobehavioral tasks that required muscle control, strength and present, EPA lacks the bulk of the chronic effects information coordination, the rats demonstrated serious impairments. A de- and is apparently contemplating yet another data call-in. tailed analysis of their brains show that a large number of brain Most recently, a 1998 Reregistration Eligibility Decision (RED) cells die within the cerebral cortex (controls muscles and move- factsheet issued by EPA states that the agency had deferred its de- ment), the hippocampal formation (controls memory, learning cision on the combination DEET/sunscreen products until it has and concentration), and the cerebellum (synchronizes body solicited the views of various governmental agencies and other movements). Many of the surviving brain cells show signs of de- groups. The agency has not yet updated its position. Sunscreen generation and damage consistent with the presence of harmful products are intended for frequent, generous use, and DEET prod- byproducts called oxygen free radicals, which can damage DNA ucts are intended for spare, infrequent use. The use of combina- and cell membranes in the brain and nervous system. The most tion products may promote greater use of DEET than is needed severe brain cell changes and sensorimotor deficits are seen for pesticidal efficacy and pose unnecessary exposure to DEET. among rats exposed to combinations of DEET, permethrin and Citing health risks and evidence that higher DEET concen- the anti-nerve gas agent. The findings confirm Dr. Abou-Donia’s trations are not more effective in repelling insects, Health 1996 and 2001 animal studies demonstrating that previously Canada, in April 2002, banned insect repellents with more than thought to be harmless doses of these three chemicals prove 30% active ingredient DEET. As of December 2004, retailers must highly toxic to the brain and nervous system when used in com- discontinue sale of these products. Two-in-one products that mix bination. According to Dr. Abou-Donia, “Never use insect repel- sunscreen and insect repellent have also been banned.

DEET C chemicalWATCH Fact Sheet Bibliography

Abou-Donia, Mohamed, et al. 2001. “Neurotoxicity Resulting From Coexposure to Pyridostigmine Bromide, DEET, and Permethrin.” Journal of Toxicology and Environmental Health (64):373-384 Abou-Donia, Mohamed, et al. 2001. “Subchronic Dermal Application of N,N-Diethyl m-Toluamide (DEET) and Permethrin to Adult Rats, Alone or in Combi- nation, Causes Diffuse Neuronal Cell Death and Cytoskeletal Abnormalities in the Cerebral Cortex and the Hippocampus, and Purkinje Neuron Loss in the Cerebellum.” Experimental Neurology 172:153- 171. National Institute of Health (NIH). 2002. DEET. Hazardous Substance Database. . National Pesticide Telecommunication Network (NPTN). 2000. DEET General Fact Sheet. December. Oregon State University. Corvallis, OR. New York State Department of Health (NYDOH). 1991. Background Information on DEET. New York State Bureau of Toxic Substance Assessment. Albany, NY. Streitfeld, David. 1991. “Blockade: The Beef Goes On.” The Washington Post. February 5, p. C5. U.S. EPA. 1998. “Reregistration Eligibility Document: DEET.” Office of Pesticide Programs, Washington D.C. < http://www.epa.gov/pesticides/reregistration/ status.htm#D>.

Page 10 Pesticides and You Vol. 22, No. 2, 2002 Beyond Pesticides/National Coalition Against the Misuse of Pesticides A BEYOND PESTlClDES FACT SHEET ț A BEYOND PESTlClDES FACT SHEET ț A BEYOND PESTlClDES FACT SHEET Backyard Mosquito Management Practices that do not poison you or the environment By Becky Crouse

irst and foremost, let’s get a couple of things straight. (1995), pgs. 17-29). He has continually questioned the effi- Mosquito management does NOT mean dousing your- cacy of spray-based strategies against mosquitoes, conduct- Fself and your kin in your favorite DEET product and ing research for several cities in the mid-1980s. then stepping out to enjoy the local wildlife. It is not swat- ting at the suckers as they bite you. And it is not investing in Life Cycle of a Skeeter one of those full-body net suits for your next camping trip. To manage mosquitoes, you have to get rid of the situa- There are more than 2,500 different species of mosquitoes in the tions that are attracting them to your world, 150 of which occur in the U.S. property, and, if you detect any and a only small fraction of which ac- breeding activity, kill them before tually transmit disease. they become adults. That’s called Mosquitoes go through four LARVACIDE! stages in their life cycle – egg, larva, So what then do mosquitoes pupa, and adult. Eggs can be laid ei- need? Why are they finding your ther one at a time or in rafts and float backyard so darn attractive? They on the surface of the water. Culex and need suitable aquatic breeding habi- Culiseta species stick their eggs to- tats in order to complete their life gether in rafts of 200 or more, which cycle (a.k.a they need water). Eggs looks like a speck of soot floating on must be laid on the surface of slow- the water, about 1/4-inch long and moving or standing water. Your first 1/8-inch wide. Anopheles and Aedes step in managing mosquitoes should species do not make rafts, but lay be to remove any and all potential their eggs separately. Aedes lay their breeding areas – anyplace that water eggs on damp soil that will be collects – from your yard. This will flooded by water. Most eggs hatch provide long-term control over mos- into larvae within 48 hours. quito populations and also controls Larvae live in the water and come to populations before they mature and the surface to breathe. They feed on mi- have a chance to reproduce, transfer cro-organisms and organic matter in the disease, and annoy. If mosquitoes do water. They molt four times, growing breed, larvaciding allows control Poster designed and illustrated by Grant Jerding larger after each molting, and changing (www.grant jerding.com) for the Maryland Pesticide Net- measures to be used in targeted ar- work (www.mdpestnet.org). into pupae after the fourth molt when eas, while mosquito larvae are still they are about 1/2-inch long. concentrated in breeding pools and before adult mosqui- The pupal stage is a resting, non-feeding stage. This is when toes spread throughout the community. the mosquito turns into an adult. It takes about two days for Adulticiding programs spray pesticides indiscrimi- the adult to fully develop, split the pupal skin and emerge. nately and do not get at the mosquitoes until they have Adults rest on the surface of the water to allow their body matured and are already nibbling at your skin. They also parts to harden and wings to dry. The complete life cycle can do little to restrict breeding. Mosquitoes develop resis- take as little as four days or as long as one month, depending on tance to chemical pesticides over time, which render the the temperature. Only adult female mosquitoes bite animals and chemicals ineffective. Adulticides present considerable require blood meals; males feed on the nectar of flowers. risk to all living things, and kill beneficial insects and natural mosquito predators, such as dragonflies, damself- Personal Prevention lies, and beetles. According to David Pimentel, Ph.D., an entomologist from ■ Remain indoors in the evenings, when most mosquito ac- Cornell University, close to 99.9 percent of the sprayed chemi- tivity occurs. cals go off into the environment where they can have detri- ■ Use screened-in porches instead of open porches. mental effects on public health ecosystems, leaving 0.10 per- cent to actually hit the target pest (“Amounts of Pesticides ■ Use herbal repellents to ward off mosquitoes, such as Skin- Reaching Target Pests: Environmental Impacts and Ethics.” So-Soft or Herbal Armour. Reapply often. Herbs that re- Journal of Agricultural and Environmental Ethics Vol. 8, No. 1 pel mosquitoes include cedarwood, garlic, lemongrass,

Vol. 22, No. 2, 2002 Pesticides and You Page 11 Beyond Pesticides/National Coalition Against the Misuse of Pesticides A BEYOND PESTlClDES FACT SHEET ț A BEYOND PESTlClDES FACT SHEET ț A BEYOND PESTlClDES FACT SHEET frankincense, cinnamon, geranium, eucalyptus, basil, rose- Control mary, cloves, peppermint, lemon balm (citronella), on- ions, feverfew, thyme, and marigold. ■ Burn citronella candles and torches to control mosqui- toes in the immediate vicinity when there is no wind. ■ Essential oils of the herbs listed above are also good re- pellents, though most are volatile organic compounds and ■ The Mosquito Magnet, a machine much like a gas grill, burns will bother someone who is sensitive to scents. To mix propane gas that sends out a plume of carbon dioxide. The your own essential oil repellent, add 10 drops of essential carbon dioxide attracts mosquitoes, which are then sucked oil to 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil, stir, and dab a few in and killed. One magnet can control adult mosquitoes over drops on your skin or clothing. Pregnant women should an acre of land, though different levels of success have been consult their doctors before using essential oils. reported. For more information see www.mosquitomagnet.com or call American Biophysics Corp. at 877-699-8727. ■ Neem oil, used as a mosquito repellent cream and composed of 2% crude neem oil is a highly effective repellent. In vari- ■ Stock ornamental ponds with mosquito larvae-eating fish, ous studies, its protection against the Culex quinquefasciatus, such as mosquito fish of the Gambusia genus. They should Aedes sp. and Mansonia sp. is greater than 75%. be stocked in enclosed water so they will remain in the area in need of control. Only indigenous species should be used. Avoid repellents containing DEET, which is quickly absorbed Mosquitofish have a number of advantages over such things through the skin and has caused effects ranging from large blis- as goldfish and koi for biological mosquito control in ponds ters to brain damage in children, with three deaths in the last 40 and other water sources: they actually eat mosquito larvae; years tied to exposure. Studies have also found adverse effects they are voracious surface feeders with upturned mouths from DEET mixed with permethrin, an insecticide commonly specially designed to get mosquito larvae where they live; used for mosquito control, especially in spray programs. The they prefer the cover and protection of shallow overgrown combination of products caused the death of a large number of areas along the shore which are also the preferred environs brain cells within the cerebral cortex, which controls muscles of mosquito larvae; and, since they give birth to live young and movement, the hippocampal formation, which controls (they are in the guppy family), they don’t need any special memory, learning and concentration, and the cerebellum, which sand or other substance for spawning. They are self-sustain- synchronizes body movements. (For more information about ing and self feeding. You can order mosquito fish through J. DEET, see the ChemicalWATCH factsheet on pages 9-10.) Reilly, 5000 Trenton Street, Metairie, LA 70006, 504-887-3666; Natural Pest Controls, 8864 Little Creek Drive, Orangevale, CA 95662, 800-873-1252; or Richmond Fisheries, 8609 Clark Household Prevention Road, Richmond, IL 60071, 815-675-6545. ■ Maintain window screens and doors, closing all opened doors. ■ Bacillus thuringiensis var. israelensis is one of the most popu- lar and most effective least-toxic biological controls. It is a ■ Remove or regularly drain all water-retaining objects, such bacterial strain that, when sprayed into larval pools, is in- as tin cans, pet dishes, buckets, holes in trees, clogged gested by feeding larvae and kills them. You can buy a product gutters and down spouts, old tires, birdbaths, trash can called Mosquito Dunks™ at your local lawn and garden store, lids, and shallow fishless ponds. in hardware stores, and in some catalogs and on line from Real ■ Stock permanent water pools, such as ornamental ponds, Goods, www.realgoods.com, 800-762-7365 and Peaceful Valley, with mosquito larvae eating fish. www.groworganic.com, 888-784-1722. The dunks are safe for birdbaths, rain barrels, ponds, ditches, tree holes, roof gut- ■ Check for standing water in plastic or canvas tarps used ters, unused swimming pools — anywhere water collects to cover pools and boats. Arrange tarps to drain water and turn canoes and small boats upside down for storage. ■ Horticultural oils (vegetable based) are effective in kill- ing larvae in water and sinking egg rafts on the surface. ■ Fix dripping outside water faucets. They also can kill non-target organisms including some ■ Enhance the drainage of flood canals, irrigation ditches mosquito predators that breathe from the surface. and fields; keep street gutters and catch basins free of de- bris and flowing properly; and enhance drainage or cre- Contact Beyond Pesticides for examples of successful community IPM ate permanent deep pools in marshes. programs for mosquito control. ■ Remove or treat sewage leaks and lagoons, which provide Resources excellent breeding conditions for certain species. Beyond Pesticides. 2002. Least Toxic Control of Pests In the Home & Garden: A series of pest control & chemical factsheets. Washington, DC. Floore, Tom. 2002. “Mosquito Information.” American Mosquito Control Association. Monitoring http://www.mosquito.org/mosquito.html. Olkowski, Helga, Daar, Shiela, and Olkowski, William. 1991. Common-Sense Pest Con- ■ trol. Newtown, MA: The Taunton Press, Inc. Check ponds and sources of water for signs of mosquito Quarles, William. 1996. “Botanical Mosquito Repellents.” Common Sense Pest Control larvae. 12(4): 12-19. Berkeley, CA.

Page 12 Pesticides and You Vol. 22, No. 2, 2002 Beyond Pesticides/National Coalition Against the Misuse of Pesticides Managing Mosquitoes Without Poisoning People What to do BEFORE pesticides or West Nile Virus get to your neighborhood

ith the concerns of West Nile virus (WNv) relying too heavily on spraying pesticides to kill adult mos- spreading across the United States, it is cru- quitoes. Reports have been filed that cite ineffective and Wcial that public health officials explore prac- hazardous spray programs targeting nuisance mosquitoes, tices that do not unnecessarily rely on toxic chemicals or triggered by a finding of infected dead birds far from that have adverse effects on people and the environment. the site of infected mosquitoes. In response to these con- Since WNv has been tracked in 27 states and the Dis- cerns, this management strategy also discusses the low ef- trict of Columbia, the concern about pesticide contami- ficacy of using pesticides to kill adult mosquitoes, and the nation and poisoning is facts about West Nile virus, growing. Claims that pes- and mosquito-borne dis- ticides are integral to pest eases such as St. Louis en- management for public cephalitis, and dengue fever. health protection over- While spraying pesti- shadow sound planning to cides is not recommended, adopt effective mosquito if a community decides to prevention measures. do this, it is important that As U.S. residents raise fears it sprays responsibly. First, about potentially fatal mos- the public should be noti- quito-borne illnesses, public fied in advance so that ex- officials are often pressured posure to dangerous chemi- into ordering broadcast pes- cals can be avoided. Sec- ticide spraying because it is a ond, pesticide operators quick and public response. should be properly pro- Yet, it may not be the most ef- tected and trained on when, fective response. To assist where, and how to spray. policymakers and public Your help is needed! Be- health officials in solving this yond Pesticides would like to dilemma, Beyond Pesticides work with you and your is working with public health community to adopt the professionals, mosquito con- Where In the States Is West Nile Virus? Public Health Mosquito Man- trol officers, and environ- agement Strategy: Managing mental health groups in the Alabama, Arkansas, Connecticut, Delaware, District Mosquitoes and Insect-Borne development of a mosquito of Columbia, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Diseases with Safety in Mind. management strategy that Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachu- Together we can: 1) Identify protects the public from both setts, Michigan, Mississippi, Missouri, New Hamp- your local public health of- mosquito-borne diseases and shire, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, ficials (see www.beyond pes- the pesticides used to kill Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Tennessee, Virginia ticides .org or contact Beyond mosquitoes. and Wisconsin. Pesticides for more details); The Public Health Mos- 2) Express concern about quito Management Strategy the dangers of pesticides (which follows) emphasizes community education, preven- and insect-borne diseases, and the need for an effective mos- tion, and monitoring methods for both mosquito-borne ill- quito prevention strategy; 3) Provide a copy of the manage- nesses and pesticide-related illnesses. Thousands of people ment strategy to your local public health officials; 4) Orga- become sick from pesticide exposure each year. Residents nize the community in support of the strategy; and, 5) are increasingly concerned about pesticide spraying near their Watchdog the implementation of the community’s mosquito homes, schools, organic farms, and other sensitive areas. management practices. While many counties have good intentions, their poli- Please contact Beyond Pesticides for a mosquito manage- cies and programs may be dangerous and inadequate by ment organizing toolkit ($5.00).

Vol. 22, No. 2, 2002 Pesticides and You Page 13 Beyond Pesticides/National Coalition Against the Misuse of Pesticides Public Health Mosquito Management Strategy Managing mosquitoes and Insect-borne diseases with safety in mind

Executive summary l. lntroduction he ideal mosquito management strategy emphasizes edu- Mosquito-borne diseases are becoming more prevalent na- cation, prevention, and monitoring for both mosquito- tionwide. With outbreaks of West Nile virus (WNv) in the Tborne illnesses and pesticide related illnesses. This strat- east and moving west, St. Louis encephalitis in the south, egy will ensure that the use of pesticides will not add to the and Dengue fever in the western part of Hawaii, there is an health problems already associated with insect-borne diseases. urgent need to develop a national mosquito management Successful control of mosquito populations requires that com- strategy. This becomes especially critical as scientists ex- munity leaders teach residents and business owners how to re- pect the recent changes in climate will increase insect-borne duce breeding habitats and mosquito bites through strong pub- diseases.3,4 Additional risks occur to the growing number lic awareness campaigns. of residents living on or near wetlands, which are more Using the prevention and monitoring techniques outlined likely to be mosquito-breeding habitats. in this report, many communities will find that they can sig- Many communities around the country are using ineffec- nificantly reduce or even eliminate their reliance on pesticides tive and pesticide-intensive mosquito management strate- while calming the public’s fears over uncontrolled mosquito gies due to a lack of adequate information. This strategy was populations. Tracking larval and adult mosquito populations, prepared with the assistance of public health officials, envi- species types, breeding locations and virus outbreaks is an es- ronmental health groups, and mosquito control officers to sential part of any mos- provide policymakers and quito management pro- community leaders with gram. Knowing when information on effective and where the virus is strategies that reduce re- likely to strike allows for liance on toxic chemicals, precise, targeted control thus controlling mosquito techniques. populations with a more Spraying should be human-friendly approach. done responsibly. The Most experts agree that decision to use pesti- an efficient mosquito man- cides should only be agement strategy empha- made after carefully sizes public awareness, pre- evaluating all of the con- vention, and monitoring tributing factors to hu- methods. However, if these man epidemics. The public—especially vulnerable populations methods are not used properly, in time, or are ineffective, com- such as pregnant women—must be notified in advance so they munities must decide whether or not to use pesticides. They can prevent exposure to potentially dangerous pesticides. Most must determine if they should risk exposing vulnerable popula- importantly, pesticide operators should be properly protected tions to potentially fatal diseases caused by mosquitoes or to and trained on when, where, and how to spray. chronic or deadly illnesses caused by pesticides.5 The latter half of this strategy provides information about The guidelines in this strategy are drawn from state and local the dangers and inefficacy of spraying pesticides. Aside from mosquito management programs that have effective and safe strat- the adverse health effects posed to humans, adulticiding may egies. Connecticut, in particular, has incorporated key elements actually increase the number of mosquitoes by destroying of a sound approach to prevention and management (see their natural predators.1 Additionally, mosquitoes that sur- www.beyondpesticides.org or contact Beyond Pesticides for the vive the spraying may become resistant, longer-lived, more state of Connecticut’s Tiered Approach to Mosquito Management). aggressive, and have an increased prevalence of the virus However, since local and state programs evolve, it is important within their bodies.2 to follow the guidelines incorporated in this strategy. Further studies are urgently needed to accurately deter- Should pesticides be used, and if so, which products are mine the health effects and the efficacy of spraying pesticides, the safest and how should they be applied? This strategy pro- and to help determine whether adulticiding should continue vides information on how to make these difficult choices. to be used in the battle to control mosquitoes. Unfortunately, until scientists can provide better evidence on

Page 14 Pesticides and You Vol. 22, No. 2, 2002 Beyond Pesticides/National Coalition Against the Misuse of Pesticides the effectiveness of spraying, there is no way to know for cer- tain if it is worth the risks of spraying. At the same time, the Table 1. Culex Mosquito Life Cycle proven health threats associated with pesticide exposure can no longer be ignored. In the United States, WNv and St. Louis encephalitis is primarily associated with the Culex mosquitoes.47 Within ll. ldeal mosquito management this genus, three species, namely C. pipiens, C. restuans, and C. salinarius make up the majority of those mosqui- strategy toes found to be infected with WNv. Only female mos- quitoes take blood meals. The ideal mosquito management strategy emphasizes public Adult females may live 2-4 weeks or more, depend- awareness, prevention, and monitoring methods. Adulticides ing on climate, species, predation, and a host of other (pesticides intended to kill adult mosquitoes) should be used factors. Like other insects, mosquitoes are cold-blooded. only as a last resort. A successfully implemented strategy re- They are most active at 80º F, become lethargic at 60º F, quires the cooperative efforts of individuals, government agen- and cannot function below 50º degrees F.48 cies, and businesses. All mosquitoes go through a complicated life cycle 1. Mosquito prevention: what people can called “complete metamorphosis.” Complete metamor- do at home phosis involves four distinct stages – egg, larva, pupa, and adult. The length of time that each stage lasts de- Eliminate breeding sites: Mosquitoes need only a bottle pends on a number of variables with temperature hav- cap of water to breed. Getting rid of mosquito breeding ing the greatest impact. sites gets rid of mosquitoes. Because many types of mos- Eggs are laid in “rafts” on standing bodies of wa- quitoes do not travel far from ter. The eggs require one to two days in wa- where they hatch, individu- ter before hatching into larvae. als can have a dramatic im- pact on local mosquito Larvae, or wigglers, molt three times during ten to populations. twelve days before pupating. Pupae, or tumblers, metamorphose over one to two Avoid the bite: Individuals can days into adults. take necessary measures to keep mosquitoes from biting them by wear- Adults emerge from their pupal cases approximately ing appropriate clothing, using essential twelve to sixteen days after being laid as eggs oil-based repellents, and avoiding peak by their mother.49 mosquito feeding times. After mating, the female requires a blood meal in or- 2. Mosquito prevention: der to produce over 250 eggs. It takes her three to four what the community days to digest the blood and produce the eggs. Females can do transmit diseases when they live long enough to spread infection from the first blood meal victim to the second Conduct public awareness cam- blood meal victim. Only a very small percentage of fe- paigns: Communities must increase the awareness of males live this long.50 Culex mosquitoes are generally weak prevention methods for mosquito-borne illnesses and, fliers and do not move far from their larval habitat, al- should a community decide to spray, for pesticide illnesses. though they have been known to fly up to two miles.51 Health care providers must also be educated about the symptoms of each and should encourage the use of pre- vention measures. Communities should utilize all forms Mosquito-eating fish: Aside from traditional larvicides, of educational tools: the media; websites; posters placed biological controls, like mosquito-feeding fish of the Gam- around schools, libraries, post offices, and markets; and, busia genus, have been used nationwide with great suc- pamphlets distributed to doctors’ offices and libraries. cess. These hardy freshwater fish can eat their weight in Public officials should also communicate mosquito pre- mosquito larvae, according to Wayne Wurtz with the vention methods. Gloucester County Mosquito Control in Pennsylvania.6 Eliminate breeding sites on public land: As on personal Predacious fish are also used in the salt-water marshes of property, public land should be cleared of all standing Nassau County, New York.7 water that could serve as a potential breeding habitat. Man- To avoid ecological problems, use indigenous species agers should be advised of the hazards of old tires behind of mosquito-eating fish, or only introduce them in en- gas stations and garages, and asked to recycle the tires or closed bodies of water. They have been known to occa- cut them in half. Gutters and ditches in public areas also sionally trigger algal blooms after consuming algae-eat- need regular maintenance to prevent standing water. ing organisms.

Vol. 22, No. 2, 2002 Pesticides and You Page 15 Beyond Pesticides/National Coalition Against the Misuse of Pesticides 3. Monitoring mosquitoes, host species, Table 2. The Facts about and the virus West Nile Virus Monitoring is an essential part of an effective mosquito management program, and should be done regularly throughout the season. Tracking larval and adult popu- What is West Nile virus? lation numbers, species types, and breeding locations pro- West Nile virus (WNv) is a mosquito-borne disease that vides invaluable information used to determine when, 52 was first detected in the United States in 1999. WNv where, and what control measures might be needed. Iden- can cause a potentially fatal illness known as encepha- tification of potential disease carriers and a gauge on the litis or inflammation of the brain. Birds act as hosts for program’s effectiveness are also afforded through popu- the virus, and mosquitoes spread it through their bites. lation counts. Knowing when and where the virus is likely Current evidence shows that only mosquitoes can spread to strike allows for precise, targeted control techniques. the disease; humans or other animals cannot. The in- Monitoring can be labor intensive and costly. How- formation in this section is primarily based on informa- ever, an accurate index of this information over time 53 tion from the Centers for Disease (CDC) website. assists the program manager in predicting and antici- pating control needs. For example, mosquito control What is the likelihood that someone officers will know which ponds breed the most mosqui- will become ill? toes, so they can target prevention and control measures. Most people’s immune systems are able to fight the vi- Local weather reports should also be consulted regu- rus. Only a small percentage of the population will get larly to help prepare the community for possible out- the virus. Some may develop flu-like symptoms. In the breaks of mosquitoes, which usually occur after droughts United States, people older than 50 years and those with followed by heavy rains. weakened immune systems have the highest risk of se- “Birds serve as important natural hosts for the vi- vere encephalitis. “Less than one percent of those in- rus in the disease cycle,” states a report from three pro- fected with West Nile virus will develop severe illness,” fessors from Texas A&M. “Public health officials often according to the CDC. Birds, horses, and other animals survey migrating bird populations to determine the in- are also at risk. In 1999, there were 62 reported cases of cidence of virus and the potential for transmission to severe disease, including 7 deaths; in 2000, there were man and animal by feeding mosquitoes.”8 As with most 21 reported illnesses and 2 deaths; and in 2001, there animals, mosquitoes will not travel farther than their were 48 illnesses and 5 deaths. According to the March habitat necessitates. If mosquitoes are not restricted by th 5 issue of the Proceedings of the National Academy of topography or climate and have an adequate food source, Sciences, there is a new vaccine against WNv that is ready which is typically from birds, they will likely stay in a for testing in non-human primates and horses. specific area. However, some mosquito species can fly much farther in search of a blood meal, especially if it is What are the symptoms? windy. This is why it is critical to monitor both the vec- Most people who become infected will have mild symp- tor and the traditional host before determining the most toms that include fever, head and body aches, skin rash, effective strategy for your community. and swollen lymph glands. However, a health care pro- vider should be contacted immediately if there is high fe- 4. Larviciding: what’s safe to use ver, confusion, muscle weakness, and severe headaches. It Because not all breeding sites can be eliminated, it may may take 3 to 15 days for any of these symptoms to show. be necessary to use larvicides, which kill mosquito lar- vae. It is recommended that products containing the bio- Where is WNv found? logical pesticide B.t.i. (Bacillus thuringiensis var. WNv is spreading throughout the United States. In 2001, israelensis) be used in such places as storm drains and the virus had been found in 27 states throughout the sewer treatment plants. Bacillus sphaericus works best in Northeast, Southeast, and Midwest. The disease is also organically rich water in drains. B.t.i. is proven to be ef- found throughout the world, including Africa, West fective and has low levels of toxicity to humans and wild- Asia, Eastern Europe, and the Middle East. In areas life.9 When sprayed into larval pools, B.t.i. is ingested by where mosquitoes carry the virus, less than one percent feeding mosquito larvae and kills them. of the mosquitoes are infected. A critical component of any successful application is When is it most common? monitoring to ensure that the insect population is at its most susceptible stage for B.t.i. application. B.t.i. is only In most parts of the United States, WNv is most com- effective against insects in their larval feeding stages and mon in late summer and early fall. In southern Florida must be ingested. Experts say it is most efficient to use and other warmer regions of the world, this disease can B.t.i. during the first and second stage of the larvae. occur year-round. In the Northeast, residents are ad- vised to take precautions until there are two hard frosts. In some cases, when the larvae are in the third and fourth stage of metamorphosis, when B.t.i. is likely to be less than

Page 16 Pesticides and You Vol. 22, No. 2, 2002 Beyond Pesticides/National Coalition Against the Misuse of Pesticides 60 percent effective, Methoprene (Altosid) may be neces- can vary in different areas, it is critical to have a good sary to kill larvae and prevent the use of adulticides.10 B.t.i. understanding of the ecology of each prior to begin- lasts approximately 30 days, and Methoprene lasts about ning any spray program. 150 days. However, some studies find that Methoprene Nuisance spraying: A number of mosquito control pro- causes wildlife deformities by interfering with hormones.11 grams respond to biting or sighting complaints by spray- As with any pesticide, larvicides should not be used ing to kill adult mosquitoes. Given the potential health widely because mosquitoes may become immune to them. risks and environmental impacts of adulticiding, moni- It is also important to note that larvicides may pose a toring and prevention techniques must be heavily empha- risk to vulnerable populations, and proper notification sized, and spraying purely to control nuisance mosqui- should be made through public awareness campaigns. toes should be avoided when possible. Public awareness 5. Adulticiding: use only as a last resort should also be used to raise the bar on tolerance levels. At and spray responsibly a minimum, citizens must be given the right to have no pesticides sprayed around their house or neighborhood. How communities can reach a decision to spray: Spray- Responsible spraying: Responsible spraying for mos- ing should only be done after carefully evaluating the like- quito-borne diseases should adhere to the guidelines pro- lihood of pesticide-related illnesses vided above and below. and the contributing factors to a human epidemic of mosquito- ■ Identify and locate the infected mos- borne diseases. Such factors include Most experts agree that by quito pools or areas. the ecology of the disease, the ■ Choose the least dangerous pesticides. prevalence and types of mosquito In general, synthetic pyrethroids have and host species found in your area, the time a human illness is lower human health and environmen- and weather patterns. Specifically, tal risks than organophosphates.13 this will involve: 1) identifying spe- detected, it is already a However, both synthetic pyrethroids, cies that are vectoring the disease; such as resmethrin and permethrin, 2) distinguishing between nuisance month too late to start and organophosphates, such as mosquitoes and those that vector malathion, are neurotoxins that can the disease; 3) find diseased birds; spraying pesticides in the cause chronic health problems. Do not and, 4) use mammals, such as mice, use Dursban™ and Sevin™; they are as sentinel species to see if mosqui- same area where that highly toxic. While botanical-based toes in a given area are at high chemicals, including synthetic pyre- enough levels to vector the disease. person was exposed. throids, are linked to breast cancer and Often, spraying occurs in re- endocrine disruptors,14 pyrethroids sponse to human illnesses, high are applied in smaller amounts and numbers of mosquitoes, or dead have shorter residual lives than birds. Research shows this is not only the least effective malathion and other organophosphates. method for managing mosquitoes, but also dangerous. Most experts agree that by the time a human illness is ■ Spray when mosquitoes are most active. After deter- detected, it is already a month too late to start spraying mining which mosquitoes carry the disease, research pesticides in the same area where that person was ex- the biology and behavior of the vector to find out posed. It takes approximately two to ten days for symp- when they are most likely to be exposed when spray- toms to show up and at least two to three weeks for blood ing. For example, Culex mosquitoes take refuge in tests to confirm a positive link to the virus. The efficacy grass and brush during the day, so spray Culex at of spraying will be much greater if earlier detection of dusk when they are active and most vulnerable. infected mosquito pools and other factors mentioned ■ Look at your local weather forecasts to gauge tem- above are used as spray indicators, rather than humans. perature and wind. According to an article in Com- It is not efficacious to spray around the location of mon Sense Pest Control, “The best condition is dur- dead birds. Only mosquitoes can transmit the disease; ing a slight breeze of three mph or less. This air birds cannot. As discussed in Table 1, some of the mos- movement helps to disperse the pesticide effec- quitoes known to carry WNv usually only travel within tively, but does not move it to unwanted areas.”15 a few mile radius of their pool. (This distance can vary, In general, mosquitoes are most active at 80º F, depending on habitat, geography, and mosquito species.) become lethargic at 60º F, and cannot function be- Since most birds can travel much farther than this, spray- low 50º degrees F.16 ing around dead birds does not get rid of the source problem.12 Some experts use sentinel species, such as ■ Ensure that the person spraying is properly trained and chickens or ducks, to first detect infected mosquito certified to use these pesticides. They should use pro- populations. However, as mosquito species and vectors tective clothing and equipment.

Vol. 22, No. 2, 2002 Pesticides and You Page 17 Beyond Pesticides/National Coalition Against the Misuse of Pesticides ■ Monitor application procedures. Verify strict com- can call into a multiple-line message service that pliance with all label instructions, including pro- is available 24/7.18 hibitions on spraying and drifting of certain pesti- • Issue Public Notices to organized groups, such as cides over bodies of water. Mist blower and aerial school superintendents, hospital associations, cham- application of these materials to populated areas bers of commerce, police and fire departments, and will result in human exposure. In most cases, village associations. This is another efficient means spraying should be done from vehicles or by pro- of notifying the public, as those organizations will fessional certified applicators on foot. be responsible for and better able to forward the no- ■ Monitor pesticide equipment calibration. Comply tices to the right places in a timely manner. with requirements for storage, disposal, and equip- • Inform public drinking water agencies to prevent ment cleaning. drinking water contamination. ■ Do not conduct aerial spraying. This is the least efficient • Utilize the media to warn the public about method of spraying. Most small planes are restricted from spraying and to publicize the mosquito hotline. flying during the evening, when many mosquito species •Place paid public service announce- are most active, and pesticides ments with local media. sprayed from planes hit less of •Use county/local websites to pro- the target area. vide information about protection ■ Continue implementing source measures against the disease and reduction and other prevention pesticides. This should also be up- strategies! dated daily with information about where spraying will occur. Public officials must warn the public about pesticide dangers: ■ Provide the public with precautionary City or town officials have the duty, measures. Everyone should receive experience, and resources to warn guidelines on how to reduce exposure the public about the dangers of to pesticides. (See tips below.) pesticides and provide information ■ Ensure the public still follows pre- on ways to minimize exposure. vention guidelines. As the Centers for Pesticides are extremely toxic to Disease Control (CDC) states that public health and the environ- adult spraying is the least efficient ment. While the following is an mosquito control technique, it is understatement, the EPA warns, critical that prevention education co- “[N]o pesticide is 100 percent safe incide with spray announcements. and care must be used in the exer- 17 cise of any pesticide.” ■ Monitor the public for adverse health effects of pesti- New York State Attorney General Elliot Spitzer rec- cide exposure. Set up a hotline for receiving reports, ommends that local governments establish Pest Manage- collecting hospital records, and requiring physician ment Advisory Boards to provide public input into mos- reporting of incidents. quito response plans and create more public accountability. He suggests these boards review an ■ Monitor pesticide levels in the environment. Use wipe agency’s vector control practices throughout the mosquito tests of outdoor and indoor surfaces, check air con- season to monitor effectiveness. ditioner filters, evaluate water samples, and conduct Public officials should embrace and utilize the fol- soil and food residue tests from gardens and farms. lowing guidelines: ■ Advise hospitals and schools. Also notify other build- ■ Notify the public at least 72 hours in advance. Inform ings with especially vulnerable populations to take every household, school, hospital, and business in extra precautionary measures to prevent pesticides the community about when the spraying will occur from entering buildings. so they will have ample time to protect themselves. How individuals can protect themselves from expo- Alert the public that pesticides are harmful. The sure to dangerous pesticides: mechanisms described below can be used to help no- tify the public. ■ Leave the area.* • Install a mosquito hotline. Update it each day with * Infants, children, pregnant women, the elderly, and individuals with compro- mised immune systems are the most vulnerable populations and should take information about where spraying will occur and extra care to avoid pesticide exposure. People with multiple chemical sensitivi- how to protect yourself from pesticides. Residents ties or other pesticide illnesses are also more vulnerable to pesticide exposure.

Page 18 Pesticides and You Vol. 22, No. 2, 2002 Beyond Pesticides/National Coalition Against the Misuse of Pesticides ■ Close the windows. Table 3. The Facts about ■ Turn off air intake on window unit air conditioners. St. Louis Encephalitis ■ Take toys and lawn furniture inside. ■ Remove shoes before entering homes to avoid track- ing in residues. What is St. Louis encephalitis? St. Louis encephalitis is a mosquito-borne disease that ■ Cover swimming pools. was most recently detected in Louisiana in 1999.54 St. ■ Don’t let children play near or behind truck-mounted Louis encephalitis is a potentially fatal illness that applicators or enter an area that has just been sprayed. causes inflammation of the brain. Birds act as hosts for the virus, and mosquitoes spread it through their ■ Wipe paws off pets with a wet cloth before they re- bites. Current evidence shows that only mosquitoes enter your home. can spread the disease; humans or other animals can- not. The information in this section is primarily based on information from the Centers for Disease Control lll. Pesticides are dangerous and Prevention (CDC) website. 55 to public health and the What is the likelihood that someone environment will become ill? According to the CDC, there have been no outbreaks of The two types of pesticides used in spraying adult mosqui- St. Louis encephalitis since 1999. The elderly and people toes include synthetic pyrethroids and organophosphates. who work outdoors are most at risk. Mortality rates range Scientific studies show that both types are dangerous, espe- from 3 to 30 percent, and are higher with the elderly. cially to vulnerable populations. Ironically, the same popu- lation that is most susceptible to severe encephalitis is also What are the symptoms? at risk of getting sick from pesticides — the elderly and People with mild infections will usually have a fever people with compromised immune systems. A study con- and a headache. More severe infection is marked by ducted by the National Research Council found that preg- headache, high fever, neck stiffness, stupor, disorien- nant women, infants, and children also have a greater risk tation, coma, tremors, occasional convulsions (espe- of getting sick from pesticides.19 cially in infants) and spastic paralysis. According to the New York State Department of Health, more people were reported to have gotten sick from pesti- cide spraying than from exposure to WNv in 2000.20 Pesti- Where is St. Louis encephalitis found? cide spraying may also leave the public with a false sense of In 1999, there were 20 reported cases of St. Louis en- security, and they may not take personal precautions. Worse, cephalitis in New Orleans, Louisiana. However, out- communities may feel it is no longer necessary to follow the breaks of the disease can occur throughout the United prevention guidelines that will eliminate breeding sites. States. During 1974-1977, there was an outbreak in the Midwest with over 2,500 reported cases. 1. Health effects of pyrethroids Synthetic pyrethroids, which include resmethrin When is it most common? (Scourge) and sumithrin (Anvil), are adulticides pat- In temperate regions, people are most at risk during terned after pyrethrum, an extract from the chrysanthe- the late summer or early fall. In milder climates, such mum flower. While similar to pyrethrum, synthetic pyre- as southern U.S. states, St. Louis encephalitis can oc- throids have been chemically engineered to have greater cur year round. toxicity and longer breakdown times.21 Additionally, al- most all synthetic pyrethroid mosquito products are com- bined with synergists, such as piperonyl butoxide (PBO), tis and asthma-like reactions, nasal stuffiness, headache, which increase potency and compromise the human nausea, incoordination, tremors, convulsions, facial flush- body’s ability to detoxify the pesticide. ing and swelling, and burning and itching sensations.25 According to the American Association of Poison Synthetic pyrethroids are endocrine disruptors and have Control Centers, pyrethrins and pyrethroids are ranked been linked to breast cancer.26 Deaths have resulted from number two among the classes of pesticides most often respiratory failure due to exposure to these chemicals. implicated in symptomatic illnesses.22 A total of 3,950 People with asthma and pollen allergies should be espe- illnesses, including 1,100 children less than six years old, cially cautious. Breakdown times range from a few hours were reported in 1996.23 Most of these illnesses likely in direct sunlight, to several months in damp, dark envi- required medical attention.24 ronments. However, synthetic pyrethroids pose lower lev- Symptoms of pyrethroid exposure include: dermati- els of human health risks than organophosphates.27

Vol. 22, No. 2, 2002 Pesticides and You Page 19 Beyond Pesticides/National Coalition Against the Misuse of Pesticides 2. Health effects of organophosphates are used not only in areas where there are healthy people, Organophosphates are a highly toxic class of pesticides but where there are vulnerable populations, such as in- that affect the central nervous, cardiovascular and respi- fants, children, and pregnant women. These and other ratory systems. They include malathion (Fyfanon), naled vulnerable populations have a higher risk of becoming ill (Dibrom) and chlorpyrifos (Mosquitomist), which are ex- due to pesticide and DEET exposure. Additionally, sev- tremely hazardous to public health and the environment. eral cases of DEET poisonings have been reported by EPA, According to the American Association of Poison Con- including three fatalities. trol Centers, organophosphates are ranked the number one pesticide most often implicated 4. Pesticide spraying is in symptomatic illnesses.28 A to- harmful to tal of 4,002 illnesses, including the environment 700 children less than six years Pesticide spraying is also harm- old, were reported in 1996.29 ful to ecosystems and wildlife.34 Most of these illnesses likely re- Adulticides pose well-docu- quired medical attention.30 mented threats to wildlife, birds, Initial, short-term symp- fish, shellfish, and beneficial in- toms of exposure include: sects such as bees, butterflies, and numbness, tingling sensations, dragonflies, which prey on mos- headache, dizziness, tremors, quitoes. As discussed below, pes- nausea, abdominal cramps, and ticide spraying often kills other sweating, lack of coordination, types of mosquito predators, too. blurred vision, difficulty breath- Furthermore, wildlife and ecosys- ing, slow heartbeat. 31 More se- tems depend on mosquitoes for vere exposures can cause un- their survival. consciousness, incontinence, It is important to note that, and convulsions, which may similar to human health risks, lead to death.32 Some organo- synthetic pyrethroids generally phosphates have been linked to pose lower environmental risks birth defects and cancer. Break- than organophosphates.35 down times range from a few days in direct sunlight, to sev- 5. Legal concerns of eral months in damp, dark en- Improperly trained EPA does not adequately vironments. pesticide applicators Five spray operators who worked 3. Mixing chemicals is review the synergistic effects of for a New York City contractor in dangerous 2000 filed a complaint with the Oc- EPA does not adequately re- active and inert ingredients cupational Safety and Health Ad- view the synergistic effects of ministration. They said they be- active and inert ingredients within the same product or came sick because of improper within the same product or training and prolonged exposure to those of different products be- those of different products the chemicals.36 Another lawsuit, fore registering a pesticide. for $125 million, was filed by com- Furthermore, combinations of before registering a pesticide. mercial fisherman who link a dra- pesticides have not been tested matic decrease in their lobster har- to rule out their health effects vest to pesticides used against mos- on vulnerable populations. quitoes believed to carry WNv.37 For example, two chemicals commonly used to con- trol adult mosquitoes may be a dangerous combination. A recent study by Duke University researchers found lV. Pesticide spraying is not that combined exposure to DEET and permethrin, which is a mosquito spray, could lead to motor deficits proven highly effective and is and learning and memory dysfunction.33 Mohammed inefficient Abou-Donia, Ph.D., a Duke University pharmacologist and co-author of this study, recommends that DEET 1. Pesticide spraying is not proven should not be used with other chemicals or by people highly effective who are taking medication. The CDC also states that adulticiding should only be Dr. Abou-Donia is concerned that these chemicals used as a last resort, when all prevention methods have

Page 20 Pesticides and You Vol. 22, No. 2, 2002 Beyond Pesticides/National Coalition Against the Misuse of Pesticides failed. According to the CDC’s website, “The underly- ing philosophy of mosquito control is based on the fact Table 4. The Facts about Dengue that the greatest control impact on mosquito popula- tions will occur when they are“concentrated, immo- bile and accessible. This emphasis focuses on habitat What is dengue? management and controlling the immature stages be- Dengue is a disease caused by one fore the mosquitoes emerge as adults. This policy re- of the four viruses: DEN-1, DEN- duces the need for widespread pesticide application in 2, DEN-3, or DEN-4. It is trans- urban areas.”38 mitted to humans through the bite While many report that lower mosquito counts occur of an infected mosquito. In 2001, immediately after spraying pesticides, it is not certain what an outbreak in Hawaii was trans- percentage of the population is reduced. Most studies of mitted by the Aedes albopictus the efficacy of adulticides are conducted with caged mos- mosquito. However, in most parts quito monitoring traps, which of course is not a realistic of the western hemisphere, the representation of mosquitoes in their natural environment. Aedes aegypti mosquito is the most For example, Ray E. Parsons, Ph.D., a medical en- common vector of this disease. The tomologist and the assistant director for the Mosquito information in this table is primarily Control Division in Houston, Texas, says it is difficult based on information from the Centers to determine the effectiveness of pesticide spraying be- for Disease Control and Prevention 56 cause there are currently no accurate means of measur- (CDC) website. ing Culex mosquito populations.39 (As discussed in Table 1, Culex is the most common type of mosquito What is the likelihood that that carries West Nile virus.) Therefore, scientists can- someone will become ill? not accurately determine what percentage of the popu- Generally, younger children have a lation has decreased after spraying. milder illness than older children and adults. Dengue hemorrhagic fever is a Pesticide spraying may increase mosquitoes: An article more severe form of the disease, and is caused by the in the Journal of the American Mosquito Control Associa- same infection as dengue. Worldwide, over 100 mil- tion showed that long-range effects of pesticide spraying lion cases of dengue fever occur each year. can actually increase the number of mosquitoes by de- stroying their natural predators.40 Furthermore, mosqui- What are the symptoms? toes that survive the spraying may become resistant, People who become infected will have a high fever, longer-lived, more aggressive, and have an increased preva- severe headache, backache, joint pains, nausea and lence of the virus within their bodies.41 vomiting, eye pain, and rash. A person with dengue hemorrhagic fever will have a fever that lasts from 2 2. Pesticide spraying is Inefficient to 7 days, and general signs and symptoms that could The CDC states that spraying pesticides intended to kill occur with many other illnesses (e.g., nausea, vomit- adult mosquitoes is usually the least efficient mosquito ing, abdominal pain, and headache). This stage is fol- control technique.42 Preventive measures such as remov- lowed by the tendency to bruise easily or other types ing breeding areas are much more efficient in eliminat- of skin hemorrhages, bleeding nose or gums, and pos- ing mosquito threats. sibly internal bleeding. The smallest blood vessels be- David Pimentel, Ph.D., a professor of entomology at come “leaky,” allowing the fluid component to escape Cornell University, estimates that pesticides sprayed from from the blood vessels. This may lead to failure of the trucks hits less than 10 percent of the targeted spray area. circulatory system and shock, followed by death, if “And you have to put out a lot of material to get that one- circulatory failure is not corrected. tenth of a percent on to the mosquito,” Dr. Pimentel added.43 In a study he wrote for the Journal of Agricul- Where is Dengue found? tural and Environmental Ethics, he estimated that less than Last year, residents living in the western part of Hawaii 0.0001 percent of ultra low volume (ULV) pesticide sprays had dengue fever. This disease can also be found in reach target insects.44 The rest of the pesticides is sprayed Puerto Rico. According to the CDC, “There is a small, on unintended areas. It is also difficult for trucks to reach but significant, risk for dengue outbreaks in the conti- over and in between tall buildings or other structures. nental United States.”57 The areas most at risk for den- gue transmission and sporadic outbreaks are southern V. Recommendations Texas and southeastern U.S, which is where the Aedes aegypti is found. Outbreaks generally occur in tropical In order to conduct adequate risk-benefit analyses of spray- urban areas, where the Aedes mosquito lives. ing adult mosquitoes when there is a disease outbreak, sev- eral key monitoring systems are needed. First, scientists must

Vol. 22, No. 2, 2002 Pesticides and You Page 21 Beyond Pesticides/National Coalition Against the Misuse of Pesticides develop better ways of measuring mosquito populations in Vl. Acknowledgments a given area. Pesticides should not be sprayed on such a widespread basis until there can be more accurate measure- We would like to thank the following individuals for contrib- ments of its efficacy. It is simply not worth the risks. Exist- uting to or reviewing this report: ing studies demonstrate that by spraying pesticides, we are Mohammed Abou-Donia, Ph.D., Duke University Medi- compounding the low risks of acquiring this disease with cal Center; Ruth Berlin, Maryland Pesticide Network; another public health threat. David Brown, Sc.D., Environment and Human Secondly, pesticide monitoring systems Health, Inc.; Veronika Carella, Health and En- must be developed that accurately mea- vironmental Issues Committee, PTA Coun- sure and record the location of spray- cil of Howard County, Maryland; Bill ing, and the types and amounts of pes- Cooke, National Audubon Soci- ticides used for each given area. This ety; Kim DeFeo, Toxics Action will enable pesticide illness tracking Center; Paul Epstein, M.D., Cen- programs to more accurately deter- ter for Health and the Global En- mine the number of illnesses caused vironment, Harvard Medical by using pesticides. In order to success- School; Jay Feldman, Beyond fully implement this system, public Pesticides; Kimberly Flynn, health officials must educate doctors New York Environmental Law and nurses, and community leaders & Justice Project; Kathleen must educate the public about symp- Gaffney, M.D., M.P.H., Nassau toms of pesticide poisoning. County, New York Health Monitoring systems should also be Commissioner (1996-2000); established to study the diseases asso- Pesticides should not be Michael Hansen, Ph.D., Con- ciated with mosquitoes. sumer Policy Institute; Pam The CDC recommends the follow- sprayed on such a Hadad Hurst, New York Coali- ing research priorities for St. Louis en- tion for Alternatives to Pesti- cephalitis: develop a standardized na- cides; Lebelle Hicks, Ph.D., tional surveillance program; character- widespread basis until there Maine Board of Pesticides Con- ize over-wintering mechanisms and trol; John Kepner, Beyond Pes- other aspects of enzootic maintenance can be more accurate ticides; Greg Kidd, J.D., Beyond cycle; evaluate vector control strategies; Pesticides; Mary Lamielle, Na- determine biological basis for increased measurements of its tional Center for Environmen- risk with age; and, develop more effec- tal Health Strategies; Rivka tive systems for disease prevention.45 efficacy. lt is simply not Lieber, Connecticut Seeking Al- The CDC also recommends the follow- ternatives for the Environment; ing priorities for Dengue fever: develop worth the risks. Jane Nogaki, New Jersey Envi- improved laboratory-based interna- ronmental Federation; Toni tional surveillance; develop rapid, sen- Nunes, Beyond Pesticides; sitive and specific diagnostic tests; de- Debbie O’Kane, North Fork En- velop more effective community-based vironmental Council; Ray E. prevention programs; and, develop tetravalent dengue vaccine.46 Parsons, Ph.D., Houston, Texas Mosquito Control Divi- Finally, pesticide applicators and mosquito control teams sion; Allen Spalt, Agricultural Resources Center; Greg should receive better training to achieve higher levels of safety Terrillion, Nassau County Mosquito Control Program; and efficacy. They should be properly trained to decide when Audrey Their, Environmental Advocates; Lucy Waletzky, and if they should spray, choose the least-toxic pesticide, use M.D.; Laura Weinberg; and, Patti Wood, Grassroots En- the best methods, and spray at the right time. vironmental Education.

Endnotes 5 People older than 50 years and those with compromised immune 1 Howard, John J. and Joanne Oliver. 1997. “Impact of Naled (Dibrom systems have a greater risk of developing a serious illness from West 14) on the Mosquito Vectors of Eastern Equine Encephalitis Virus,” Nile virus. This same population, plus infants, children and preg- Journal of the American Mosquito Control Association 13(4): 315-325. nant women have a greater risk of getting seriously ill from pesti- 2 Sugg, William C. and Kim DeFeo. 2001. Overkill: Why Pesticide Spraying cide exposure. May Cause More Harm than Good. Toxics Action Center. West Hartford, CT. 6 Mancuso, Sara Isadora. 2001. “NJ Uses Weapon in Fight Against Mos- 3 Epstein, Paul R. and C. Defilippo. 2001. “West Nile Virus and Drought.” quitoes: Fish.” Philadelphia Inquirer, September 8. Global Change & Human Health 2: 105-107. 7 Turrillion, Greg. 2002. Director of Mosquito Control Program in Nassau 4 Epstein, Paul. 2000. “Is Global Warming Harmful to Health.” Scientific County, NY. Personal communication. March. American, Inc. August. 8 McWhorter, G. Michael and J.K. Olson. 1997. “Mosquito Pests of Man

Page 22 Pesticides and You Vol. 22, No. 2, 2002 Beyond Pesticides/National Coalition Against the Misuse of Pesticides and Animals.” Texas A&M University. http://insects.tamu.edu/extension/ extremely toxic to fish and other aquatic organisms. Do not apply di- bulletins/l-1744.html. rectly to water or to areas where surface water is present or to intertidal 9 Hicks, Lebelle (2001). Human Health and Environmental Relative Risks of areas below the mean high water mark.” WNV Mosquito Control Products. Maine Board of Pesticides Control. 35 Hicks, Lebelle. 2001. Human Health and Environmental Relative Risks of 10 Turrillion, Greg. 2002. Director of Mosquito Control Program in Nassau WNV Mosquito Control Products. Maine Board of Pesticides Control. County, NY. Personal communication. March. 36 Parker and Waichman, Attorneys at Law. 2001. “Workers Say Chemi- 11 La Clair, JJ, JA Bantle and J Dumont. 1998. “Photoproducts and metabo- cals Used in Mosquito Spraying Made Them Ill.” http:/ lites of a common insect growth regulator produce developmental deformi- www.1800lawinfo.com/articles/article5581.cfm ties in Xenopus.” Environmental Science and Technology 32: 1453-1461. 37 Sugg, William and Kim DeFeo. 2001. Overkill: Why Pesticide Spraying 12 Most mosquitoes are known to be attracted to the carbon dioxide given for West Nile Virus May Cause More Harm than Good. Toxics Action Cen- off by living animals. ter. West Hartford, CT. 13 Hicks, Lebelle. 2001. Human Health and Environmental Relative Risks of 38 CDC. www.cdc.gov. 2001. WNV Mosquito Control Products. Maine Board of Pesticides Control. 39 Parsons, Ray E., Ph.D. 2001. Assistant Director for Mosquito Control, 14 Vera Go, Joan Garey, Mary S. Wolff, and Beatriz G.T. Pogo. 1999. Harris County Mosquito Control Division. Telephone interview on Sep- “Estrogenic Potential of Certain Pyrethroid Compounds in the MCF- tember. http://www.hd.co.harris.tx.us/msq/msq.htm. 7 Human Breast Carcinoma Cell Line.” Environmental Health Perspec- 40 Howard, John J. and Joanne Oliver. 1997. “Impact of Naled (Dibrom tives 107(3). 14) on the Mosquito Vectors of Eastern Equine Encephalitis Virus,” Jour- 15 Quarles, William. 2001. “Sprays for Adult Mosquitoes—A Failed Tech- nal of the American Mosquito Control Association. 13( 4) :315-325. nology?” Common Sense Pest Control 17(2). Berkeley, CA. 41 Sugg, William C. and Kim DeFeo. 2001. Overkill: Why Pesticide Spraying 16 Rutgers University, Entomology Department. 2001. “FAQ’s on Mosqui- May Cause More Harm than Good. Toxics Action Center. West Hartford, CT. toes.” www.rci.rugers.edu/~insects/mosfaq.htm. 42 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 2001. Epidemic/Epizootic 17 U.S. EPA. 2000. Questions and Answers: Pesticides and Mosquito Control. West Nile Virus in the United States: Revised Guidelines for Surveil- Department of Prevention, Pesticides and Toxic Substances. http:// lance, Prevention, and Control. Atlanta, GA. http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/ www.epa.gov/pesticides/citizens/pmcfs.pdf. dvbid/westnile/resources/wnv-guidelines-apr-2001.pdf 18 Nassau County installed a 24-line message service, which cost only 43 Pimentel, David. 1995. “Amounts of Pesticides Reaching Target Pests: $15,000 to serve 1.3 million people. This helped alleviate the burden Environmental Impacts and Ethics.” Journal Of Agricultural And Envi- and resources needed to answer up to 12,000 calls per day. ronmental Ethics. 8(1):17-29 19 National Research Council. 1993. “Pesticides in the Diets of Infants and 44 Ibid. Children.” National Academy Press. Washington, D.C. 45 Centers for Disease Prevention and Control. 2001. “Fact Sheet: St. Louis 20 City Health Information. 2001. West Nile Virus Surveillance and Control: Encephalitis.” www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dvbid/arbor/slefact.htm. An Update for Health Care Providers in New York City. New York City 46 Centers for Disease Prevention and Control. 2001. “Fact Sheet: Den- Department of Health 20(2). http://www.nyc.gov/html/doh/pdf/chi/ gue and Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever.” www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dvbid/den- chi20-2.pdf. gue/facts.htm. 21 Gosselin, R.E. 1984. Clinical Toxicology of Commercial Products. Will- 47 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Division of Vector-Borne In- iams and Wilkins. Baltimore, MD. fectious Diseases. West Nile Virus: Entomology. http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/ 22 U.S. EPA .1999. “Recognition and Management of Pesticide Poisonings.” dvbid/westnile/insects.htm; and CDC Answers Your Questions About St. Fifth Edition. Office of Prevention, Pesticides, and Toxic Substances. Louis Encephalitis. http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dvbid/arbor/SLE_QA.htm. 23 Ibid. 48 Rutgers Entomology. 2001. “FAQ’s on Mosquitoes.” www.rci.rugers.edu/ 24 Ibid. ~insects/mosfaq.htm. 25 Extension Toxicology Network. 1994. “Pyrethroids” Pesticide Informa- 49 The Pasco County Mosquito Control District. Mosquito Life History. tion Profiles. http://ace.orst.edu/cgi-bin/mfs/01/pips/pyrethri.htm. http://www.pasco-mosquito.org/life_history.htm 26 Go, V. et al. 1999. “Estrogenic Potential of Certain Pyrethroid Com- 50 Ibid. pounds in the MCF-7 Human Breast Carcinoma Cell Line.” Environ- 51 Floore, T. 2000. Mosquito Information. The American Mosquito Con- mental Health Perspectives 107(3). trol Association. http://www.mosquito.org/mosquito.html 27 Hicks, Lebelle. 2001. Human Health and Environmental Relative Risks of 52 West Nile Virus is closely related to the St. Louis encephalitis virus that WNV Mosquito Control Products. Maine Board of Pesticides Control. is also found in the United States. 28 U.S. EPA .1999. “Recognition and Management of Pesticide Poisonings.” 53 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Office of Vector-Borne In- Fifth Edition. Office of Prevention, Pesticides, and Toxic Substances. fectious Diseases. West Nile Virus Background. 2001. http://www.cdc.gov/ 29 Ibid. ncidod/dvbid/westnile/index.htm 30 Ibid. 54 St. Louis encephalitis is closely related to the West Nile virus that is also 31 Extension Toxicology Network. 1994. “Malathion.” Pesticide Informa- found in the United States. tion Profiles. http://ace.orst.edu/cgi-bin/mfs/01/pips/malathio.htm. 55 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Office of Vector-Borne In- 32 U.S. EPA. 1999. “Recognition and Management of Pesticide Poisonings.” fectious Diseases. CDC Answers Your Questions About St. Louis En- Fifth Edition. Office of Prevention, Pesticides, and Toxic Substances. cephalitis. http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dvbid/arbor/SLE_QA.htm. 2002. 33 Abdel-Rahman, Ali, Ashok K. Shetty, and Mohamed B. Abou-Donia. 56 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Office of Vector-Borne 2001. “Subchronic Dermal Application of “N,N-Diethyl m-Toluamide Infectious Diseases. Dengue and Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever: Ques- (DEET) and Permethrin to Adult Rats, Alone or in Combination, Causes tions and Answers. 2002. http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dvbid/dengue/ Diffuse Neuronal Cell Death and Cytoskeletal Abnormalities in the Ce- dengue-qa.htm. rebral Cortex and the Hippocampus, and Purkinje Neuron Loss in the 57 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Office of Vector-Borne In- Cerebellum.” Experimental Neurology. 172(November). fectious Diseases. CDC Dengue Fever Home Page. 2002. http:// 34 For example: The label on a permethrin product says, “This product is www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dvbid/dengue/index.htm.

Vol. 22, No. 2, 2002 Pesticides and You Page 23 Beyond Pesticides/National Coalition Against the Misuse of Pesticides Resources by Jessica Lunsford

Breast Cancer State Learning Curve: the long run. The Healthy Schools Act, which went into effect January 2001, of the Evidence: What Charting Progress on requires schools to track and report on ls the Connection Pesticide Use and the their pesticide use, including sending parents notification at the beginning of Between Chemicals Healthy Schools Act each school year listing every pesticide and Breast Cancer? C. McKendry (California Public Interest that schools in the district might use. Research Group Charitable Trust and Over eleven state laws, including Cali- Edited by N. Evans (Breast Cancer Fund Californians for Pesticide Reform, San fornia, also require schools to adopt and Breast Cancer Action, San Francisco Francisco CA, 2002). One year after IPM. For a copy of the report ($5.00), CA, 2002). Breast cancer rates have been California’s Healthy Schools Act report- contact CPR at (415) 981-3939 or dramatically rising since ing requirements were put CALPIRG at (415) 206-9338 or dow the 1940s. Although tre- in place, a new report mendous resources are by California Public Inter- Building Blocks for spent on research, over 50 est Research Group School lPM: A Least- percent of all cases are un- (CALPIRG) and Califor- explained. There is, how- nians for Pesticide Reform toxic Structural Pest ever, mounting evidence (CPR) reveals that while Management Manual that implicates over 85,000 many school districts are synthetic chemicals used improving their pesticide Edited by B. Crouse and K. Owens (Be- today. Breast Cancer State of policies, implementation yond Pesticides, Washington DC 2002). the Evidence explores breast of the Act has been incon- Building Blocks for School IPM promotes cancer proliferation, re- sistent and many school alternatives to the prevailing chemical- search, and evidence link- districts are not in full intensive practices by providing infor- ing some of the most ubiquitous natu- compliance with the law. Learning mation on how to administer an inte- ral and synthetic chemicals to breast Curve also shows that the state’s 15 grated pest management (IPM) program cancer. The report calls for the use of largest school districts anticipate using in the school environment. IPM is a pro- the Precautionary Principle where evi- pesticides with 54 different active in- gram of prevention, monitoring and dence of harm, rather than definitive gredients, many of which are linked to control by focusing on eliminating or proof, is the trigger for policy action. childhood cancers, asthma and other reducing sources of food, water and har- Many of the products used everyday serious health problems, compared borage for pests. It offers the opportu- include chemicals that mimic the with 42 just two years ago. “Because nity to eliminate or drastically reduce actions of estrogen and have the same of the Healthy Schools Act, we now have pesticide use in schools, and to mini- cancer causing effects. Known as a much better picture of pesticide use mize the toxicity of and possible expo- xenoestrogens these environmental in California’s schools,” said report au- sure to any products used. chemicals exist in pesticides, fuels, plas- thor Corina McKendry, The manual includes tics, detergents, and prescription drugs. CALPIRG’s Pesticide Asso- information on why In order to reduce these synthetic ciate. “Parents and school schools should adopt IPM chemicals in the environment and in our officials can now take in- programs, how to develop bodies, the report recommends: i) phas- formed action to protect and implement a program, ing out synthetic toxic chemicals; ii) children’s health and say no pest management strate- enacting laws that require companies to to toxic pesticides at gies to structural pests, in- report amounts of chemicals used; iii) schools.” On the bright cluding a practical guide to instating toxic-free government pur- side, the report further identifying, preventing chasing practices; iv) encouraging cor- finds that some have sig- and controlling common porations to eliminate the use of harm- nificantly improved their school pest problems, ful chemicals through financial incen- pest management prac- school IPM experts, a tives; and, v) establishing a breast milk tices. Oakland Unified has model policy and contract, monitoring program. For a free copy of joined San Francisco Uni- a non- and least-toxic the report, contact The Breast Cancer fied and Los Angeles Unified in pass- product guide and fact sheets on the Fund at 415-346-8223, info@breastcancer ing a strong IPM policy that employs toxicity of commonly used pesticides in fund.org or download the report at http:/ common sense, least toxic approaches schools. For a copy ($15 ppd), contact /www.breastcancerfund.org. nload at to pest management, prioritizing Beyond Pesticides at 202-543-5450 or or- http://www.calpirg.org children’s health and saving money in der online at www.beyond pesticides.org.

Page 24 Pesticides and You Vol. 22, No. 2, 2002 Beyond Pesticides/National Coalition Against the Misuse of Pesticides BEYOND PESTICIDES/NCAMP MEMBERSHIP & SUBSCRIPTIONS ❏ YES, make me a member of Beyond Pesticides/NCAMP (includes subscription to Pesticides & You). ❏ $25 Individual ❏ $30 Family ❏ $50 Public Interest Organizations ❏ $15 Limited Income ❏ YES, I’d like to subscribe to Pesticides & You. ❏ $25 Individual ❏ $50 Public Interest Organizations ❏ $50 Government ❏ $100 Corporate ❏ YES, I’d like to receive Beyond Pesticides/NCAMP’s monthly Technical Report. $20 with membership or subscription. If outside the United States, please add $10.00 each for memberships and subscriptions. R E S O U R C E S

T-Shirts Brochures ($2.00 each; bulk discounts available) ❏ Beyond Pesticides’ Dragonfly T-shirt. Printed on sage green, 100% organic ❏ Pest Control Without Toxic Chemicals cotton with soy ink. Sizes S-XL. $15 each; 2 for $25. ❏ Least Toxic Control of Lawn Pests ❏ “Pollution Prevention Is the Cure.” full color graphic on 100% natural organic ❏ Agriculture: Soil Erosion, Pesticides, Sustainability cotton Beneficial-T’s by Patagonia™ T-shirt. Sizes S-XL. $10 each; 2 for $15. ❏ ❏ Estrogenic Pesticides “Speak to the Earth, and It Shall Teach Thee.” In green and blue on 100% natural ❏ Pesticides and Your Fruits and Vegetables organic cotton. $10 each; 2 for $15. ❏ Pesticides: Are you being poisoned without your knowledge? ❏ “Freedom from Pesticides is Every Body’s Right.” Black letters with teal, purple and ❏ yellow accents, 100% natural organic cotton. Size S only. $10, 2 for $15. Pesticides – Warning: These Products May Be Hazardous to Your Health ❏ Pesticides in Our Homes and Schools Books ❏ A Failure to Protect. Landmark study of federal government pesticide use and pest Testimony management practices. $23.00. Summary and Overview $5.00. ❏ Lawn Care Chemicals, 3/28/90 or 5/9/91, $4.00 ❏ Unnecessary Risks: The Benefit Side of the Risk-Benefit Equation. ❏ Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, Rodenticide Act (FIFRA), 4/23/91 or 6/8/93, $4.00 Explains how the EPA’s Risk-Benefit Analyses falsely assume the need for high- ❏ Food Safety, 10/19/89, 8/2/93, or 6/7/95, $4.00 risk pesticides, how “benefits” are inflated, how alternatives might be assessed, ❏ School Environmental Protection Act (SEPA) 7/18/01, $4.00 and the public’s right to ask more from its regulators. $10.00. ❏ School IPM, 6/20/91, 3/19/97, or 3/30/99, $5.00 ❏ Safety at Home: A Guide to the Hazards of Lawn and ❏ Garden Pesticides and Safer Ways to Manage Pests. New York City’s Response to the Encephalitis Outbreak, 10/12/99 $4.00 Learn more about: the toxicity of common pesticides; non-toxic lawn care and ❏ Parents: Right-to-Know-Schools, 3/19/97 $3.00 why current laws offer inadequate protection. $11.00 ❏ Voices for Pesticide Reform: The Case for Safe Practices and Sound Policy. A study Publications documenting stories of tragic pesticide poisoning and contamination, and ❏ Building Blocks for School IPM $15.00 successfully used alternatives that avoid toxic chemicals. $20.00 Summary: ❏ Expelling Pesticides from Schools: Adopting School IPM $15.00 Voices for Pesticide Reform $5.00 ❏ Beyond Pesticides’ West Nile Virus Organizing Manual $15.00 ❏ Poison Poles: Their Toxic Trail and the Safer Alternatives. A study on the largest ❏ Beyond Pesticides’ChemWatch Factsheets: individual: $2.00, compilation: $20.00 group of pesticides – wood preservatives, the contamination associated with ❏ Getting Pesticides Out of Food and Food Production $5.00 treated wood utility poles and the available alternatives. $20.00 ❏ Least-Toxic Control of Pests $6.00 ❏ Pole Pollution. Deals specifically with the wood preservative pentachlorophenol, ❏ and the EPA’s shocking findings about its toxicity. $7.00. Community Organizing Toolkit $12.00 ❏ Model Pesticide Ordinance, Model School Pest Management Policy, Model State Back Issues School Pesticide Law $5.00 each ❏ Back issues of Pesticides and You $2.00 each ❏ Building of State Indoor Pesticide Policies $4.00 ❏ Back issues of Technical Reports $1.00 each ❏ The Right Way to Vegetation Management $4.00

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Mail to: Beyond Pesticides/NCAMP, 701 E Street SE, Washington, DC 20003 Tax-Deductible Donation: ______Total Enclosed: ______Vol. 22, No. 2, 2002 Photo Stories @ www.beyondpesticides.org

“A picture is worth a thousand words.” On March 1, 2002, Beyond Pesticides launched a new web-based project that uses photography from people and organizations around the country to document hazardous pesticide practices and effective and safe pest management methods. Since its launch, the project, which links from a photo on the Beyond Pesticides homepage, has featured photos that include a healthy organic golf course, a mayor spraying for mosquitoes without protection and a house lined with “recycled” utility poles treated with toxic wood preservatives.

Send us your photos! To get your photo featured on one of the most popular pesticide reform websites, send a picture that captures a positive situation (like an organic farm or a pesticide-free school) or negative situation that This photo of a wheelbug feasting on an Asian lady beetle, sent by Carol Kauscher of Cincinnati, OH, was featured as the April 5 needs public attention (like the most toxic looking utility Photo Story. pole or cropdusters flying over homes) along with a description of the photograph, identifying where it was taken, and a photo credit.

Email electronic photos to [email protected], attention Photo Stories, in jpg, gif, or bmp format. If you send us a hard copy, the organization will be happy to return it upon request. Mail hard copies to: Photo Sto- ries, Beyond Pesticides, 701 E Street, SE, Washington, DC 20003.

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Printed with soy-based inks on Ecoprint Offset, and cover on Quest™, both 100% post-consumer waste and processed chlorine free.

Summer 2002 • Vol. 22, No. 2 a member of Earth Share SM