Commission adopts 2023 reduced-risk pesticide list after public comment on herbicide posting and health concerns

The Commission on the Environment voted Sept. 26 to adopt the 2023 Reduced Risk Pesticide List (RRPL) for municipal properties after a staff presentation and public comment.

Dr. Shoba Iyer, IPM program manager, and Gabriel Hernandez, municipal toxics reduction assistant, described program accomplishments and proposed changes. Staff said city departments reduced tier‑1 herbicide use by a large percentage since 2010 (Iyer cited a 98.7% decline in tier‑1 herbicide use from 2010 to 2022) and proposed removing one tier‑1 herbicide (Garlon 4 Ultra) from the RRPL in favor of a lower‑hazard alternative (Vastlan). The proposed RRPL also adds four tier‑2 products (including a plant growth regulator and a rodent bait for rotation) and four tier‑3 products (including an organic insecticide and pigeon repellent); staff emphasized a precautionary, harm‑reduction approach and noted ongoing toxicological reviews.

During public comment, a remote caller (Anastasia Glickster) asked that postings about herbicide spraying be available online in addition to physical signs; other callers told the commission they oppose any synthetic pesticide use and described personal health concerns. Staff replied that city ordinance requires warning signs for tier‑1 and tier‑2 applications — posted three days prior and several days after — and said they will consider improving notice practices and online accessibility.

Commissioner Sullivan moved approval of the RRPL resolution; after public comment the commission passed the resolution by roll call with aye votes from commissioners present. The adopted list updates product authorizations and clarifies use instructions; staff noted the IPM program will continue toxicological reviews and outreach with city departments.