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Reference Links
Fumigant Resource Center
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Measured in pounds, fumigants represent approximately 20 percent of all agricultural pesticides used in California. Some of the most widely used fumigants include methyl bromide, 1,3-dichloropropene (Telone), chloropicrin, and pesticides that generate methyl isothiocyanate (MITC), such as metam-sodium. Before planting, farmers use fumigants to control disease, weeds, and pests in the soil. Fumigants are also used to disinfest structures and harvested commodities. Since fumigants are both toxic and gaseous, their offsite movement can pose hazards. DPR, has evaluated numerous studies to determine air concentrations, and assess the risks of both worker and public exposure to fumigants. Based on the analysis of data, DPR and the County Agricultural Commissioners have implemented the nation’s strictest regulatory requirements on use of fumigants.
Current activities
- Air Quality Initiative
- Monitoring - information on monitoring in progress or upcoming
- Regulatory issues - legal requirements and regulatory activities
- Regulations to Reduce VOCs by Controlling Field Fumigant Emissions
Reference information and background
- Alternatives
- Methyl bromide - links
- Other DPR air programs
- Publications - on monitoring, methodology, and data analysis
- Risk assessments
For content questions contact:
Randy Segawa
Phone: (916) 324-4039
E-mail: rsegawa@cdpr.ca.gov