Atrazine, propazine and simazine are safe to use according to the United States Environmental Protection Agency.
EPA Administrator Andrew Wheeler announced that there has been an interim decision granting approval for farmers to continue using them.
There are increased requirements for wearing protective equipment and labels will outline cautions about spray drift and herbicide resistance.
For home use, the EPA said atrazine and simazine rate limits will be reduced, the lawns will need to be watered immediately after they are sprayed and people will have to wear protective equipment.
“Today’s news provides much needed regulatory certainty for farmers during a time when few things are certain,” said Gary Marshall, chief executive officer for the Missouri Corn Growers Association. He is chairman of the Triazine Network which has been lobbying for continued approval to use the three herbicides.
There are 13 atrazine products approved for use in Canada.
