Environmental Information
for the California Almond Industry
Endangered Species Act Regulations of Importance to Almond Growers

In December 2002,  the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) issued a detailed proposal regarding future implementation of its ongoing Endangered Species Protection Program (ESPP).  In January 2003, the EPA and the  U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the National Marine Fisheries Service jointly requested public comment on the appropriate responsibilities of each Federal agency in evaluating the potential impacts of pesticides on endangered or threatened species.  

At the State level, the California Department of Pesticide Regulation (DPR) has drafted a series of County Bulletins that list pesticide use restrictions by commodity, species, and habitat within the nearest square mile.  The final scope and implementation of these bulletins is tied to finalization of the ESPP by EPA, and may be impacted by budgetary constraints within DPR.

To date, compliance with these Bulletins has been voluntary.  However, the County Bulletins will become mandatory when the Endangered Species Protection Program is finalized. At present,  EPA is still attempting to finalize the ESPP.

EPA says it intends to comply with the ESA without placing an unnecessary burden on agriculture and other pesticide users.  It is important that almond growers keep abreast of the ongoing Endangered Species Protection Program at both the Federal and State levels.  The EPA maintains a very informative website at http://www.epa.gov/oppfead1/endanger/effects/.  This website includes the findings made by EPA to date, and will include the schedule for future assessments and opportunities for public comment. 

Another important resource is the DPR website at http://www.cdpr.ca.gov/docs/es/index.htm. At this site, you will be able to find draft County Bulletins.  DPR has stated its intention to maintain an open and participatory process in adopting finalized County Bulletins, and is expected to schedule a series of public input meetings.

Endangered Species Act in the news--click here for the latest headlines on air quality issues affecting California almond growers.

For more information on the Almond Board's Environmental Committee, click here.

 

 

 

 



 

 

 

Environmental Champion Award

The EPA recognized the California almond industry for its leadership on environmental issues when it named the Almond Board a Champion for Pesticide Environmental Stewardship. Click here to learn more.