Pesticide Regulation

Pesticides are an important component of agriculture/horticultural production systems. Pesticides are utilized in integrated pest management programs and result in the production of abundant and safe food, fiber and ornamental crops which sustain the quality of life we enjoy.

Pesticide laws, regulations and policies ensure that pesticides are used correctly and that adequate protection is provided to applicators, workers, consumers, and the environment. This body of regulations is constantly changing to enhance protection of human health and the environment, and reflect new technology and scientific discovery as well as to improve safety.


Staff Contact: Nathan Bowen; 202-296-9680

Letters and Comments

View All +

View All +

Testimony

Policy Statements

Documents and Links

  • Pest Management - ERS Briefing Room http://www.ers.usda.gov/Browse/FarmPracticesManagement/PestManagement.htm
    Pests reduce crop and livestock yield and quality and increase the cost of production. ERS provides data on pesticide use, management practices, adoption of genetically modified insect- and herbicide-tolerant cultivars, and control costs by state and commodity. In addition, ERS examines economic and environmental consequences of specific pests, management strategies, and public policies.

  • Agricultural Chemicals and Production Technology - ERS Briefing Room http://www.ers.usda.gov/Briefing/AgChemicals/
    ERS research examines the critical role of economic and environmental factors in the adoption of management practices and technologies, including the use of conservation tillage, integrated pest management, precision farming, nutrient testing, organic farming, and biotechnology.