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Pyrethroid Pesticide Use Within the City of Shasta Lake
In 2017, the Central Valley Regional Water Quality Control Board (CVRWQCB) passed Resolution R5-2017-0057, establishing a Pyrethroid Pesticide Control Program to control the discharging of pyrethroid pesticides throughout the Sacramento and San Joaquin River Basins to protect aquatic life. Pyrethroids are a class of synthetic insecticides found in household pesticides sold in common retail locations and are approved for use by the California Department of Pesticide Regulation. Pyrethroids remain in the environment significantly longer than naturally derived pyrethrin, which means they are susceptible to being transported by surface runoff into surrounding aquatic environments. A recent report has found that pyrethroid concentrations in urban storm drain discharges frequently exceeded water quality standards, and these elevated concentrations were determined to be toxic to aquatic life.
In response to these new findings, the City of Shasta Lake (City) is implementing a Pyrethroid Management Plan to reduce pyrethroid levels in the City’s runoff. Pyrethroid-based pesticides can still be used and sold within city limits, but the City is encouraging everyone to reduce their use and businesses to reduce their sales of pyrethroid-based products. The City, in cooperation with the State Water Boards, has provided information and links below about clean waterways, what is Integrated Pest Management (IPM), and alternatives to chemical pest controls. The health of aquatic species in our creeks, streams, and rivers is an important component to recreation in the area as well as biodiversity of the waterways.
To view the City's Pyrethroid Management Plan, click here.
As a resident, you can contribute to clean waterways by:
1. Clicking here to learn some basics about keeping our water clean.
2. Using alternative, naturally derived pesticides such as pyrethrin or Safer soap. Click here to learn about less-toxic pest control methods.
3. Using integrated pest management (IPM) practices, such as predatory insects, around your home and garden. Click here for information on IPM practices.
4. Reducing pesticide applications and avoid using them during the rainy season.
5. Utilizing landscape management practices, such as buffers and infiltration, to reduce the potential for pesticides applied to the ground from washing off your property.
6. Reducing runoff from your property through irrigation management to prevent dry-weather storm water runoff.
7. Working with a licensed pest control company that can evaluate your pest problem and provide targeted solutions.
As a local business, you can contribute to clean waterways by:
1. Using or selling alternative, naturally derived pesticides such as pyrethrin or Safer soap. Click here to learn about less-toxic pest control methods.
2. Posting educational material in your store about integrated pest management (IPM) and non-toxic methods of pest control. Download, view, and print information for the following topics:
• Natural Enemies of Garden Pests poster
3. Selling your remaining stock of pyrethroid-based pesticides and then switch to selling non-pyrethroid-based products.
4. Signing up here to receive the Retail Nursery and Garden Center IPM News from University of California IPM, which provides helpful tips and new information about pest management.
5. Working with a licensed pest control company that can evaluate your pest problem and provide targeted solutions for your retail location.
As a pest control company, you are a primary pesticide user and your actions can have a large
impact on water quality. You can contribute to the clean water effort by:
1. Using or selling alternative, naturally derived pesticides such as pyrethrin or Safer soap. Click here to learn about less-toxic pest control methods.
2. Working with your clients on integrated pest management (IPM) practices, such as predatory insects, that reduce or eliminate the need for toxic pesticides. Click here for information on IPM practices.
3. Using your remaining pyrethroid-based products and then switching to non-pyrethroid-based products.
4. Staying connected by subscribing to the free University of California IPM Green Bulletin, which focuses on specific practices and information that pest management professionals can incorporate into their daily work to manage pests effectively while reducing pesticide runoff.
5. Renewing or ensuring your license is current and valid with the California Department of Pesticide Regulation (CDPR). Click here for licensing information and status.
You also have the unique opportunity to discuss IPM with your clients and the importance of responsible pesticide use.
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