I do realize that the time for OP pesticides is nearly up, and new technologies must be developed and marketed. But time is required to find these replacements. There is no health crisis regarding these compounds. Thus, there is no need for the EPA to act hastily. Ample lead time is needed to allow compounds to be developed and tested under various IPM programs and in diverse environmental conditions characteristic of our rugged, diverse terrain.
Time is needed for growers to make the transition.
But first, the technological alternatives must be developed and repeatedly proven. On behalf of my fellow agricultural scientists at WSU, we stand ready to help industry and growers develop and adopt the new technologies. These efforts will take resources. But most of all, for now, let's leave the crisis mentality behind and allow enough time for the changes to come.