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Methods Allowed Under Field Fumigant Regulations
Back to Regulations to Reduce VOCs by Controlling Field Fumigant Emissions
Regulations to reduce emissions of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from fumigant pesticides went into effect in January 2008. The rules focus on field fumigant applications made between May 1 and October 31 in five nonattainment areas (NAAs) that do not meet federal air quality standards for pesticide VOC emissions: the San Joaquin Valley NAA, Sacramento Metro NAA, South Coast NAA, Southeast Desert NAA, and Ventura NAA.
Application method requirements depend on:
– When the fumigant will be applied, and
– Where the fumigant will be applied.
Outside the five NAAs
Throughout the year, in areas outside the five NAAs – no change. Any field fumigant method previously allowed can be used, anywhere in California. (Regulations and permit conditions that already restricted the use of some fumigants still apply.)
Within the five NAAs
From November 1 to April 30 – no change. Any field fumigant method previously allowed can be used, anywhere in California. (Regulations and permit conditions that already restricted the use of some fumigants still apply.)
May 1 to October 31 – field fumigations are limited to specific methods listed in the regulations. Many methods also include requirements for soil moisture and tarpaulin repair.
- List of allowed methods, categorized by active ingredient, for each NAA (PDF, 124 kb)
- Detailed descriptions of methods allowed
- Soil moisture and tarpaulin repair requirements
- Exempted application methods – These specialized methods are exempted from the new requirements because of negligible emissions
- Reduced emission application methods – DPR has granted interim approval of these new fumigation methods not included in the regulations.
- Maps and lists of townships-ranges-sections affected
- How to calculate fumigant VOC emissions
For content questions contact:
Randy Segawa
Phone: (916) 324-4137
E-mail: rsegawa@cdpr.ca.gov