In 34 communities across Canada, local campaigns for pesticide reduction by-laws kicked off in anticipation of the pesticide spraying season. It's the perfect time to educate yourself on the very serious health and environmental consequences of pesticide use. Local campaigners are approaching their Councils with proposals to restrict the cosmetic use of pesticides on both public and private lands. There are many powers which municipal governments can exercise which do not infringe on provincial or federal authority over pesticides.
People incorrectly assume that because a pesticide is registered, it is 'safe'.
Adding to existing concerns about the cosmetic spraying of pesticides are disturbing new findings from studies conducted in Alberta. The recent Canada Alberta Environmentally Sustainable Agriculture report on water quality concluded that 2,4-D, the most commonly used lawn pesticide, can persist in groundwater for as long as 77 days. This adds to the evidence that contradicts industry claims that 2,4-D breaks down within hours of being applied to a lawn. If you care about your family, your pets, and the environment, just stop using chemicals.