LUBBOCK, Texas (RFD News) — EPA plans to host a paraquat roundtable this summer as the agency reviews new questions about herbicide safety, exposure, and possible alternatives.
The agency says the meeting will bring together scientists, subject-matter experts, farm worker and community advocates, and other stakeholders. Details on the date, location, format, and participation process will be announced in the coming weeks.
EPA says a new vapor-pressure study raised more uncertainty about how much paraquat may volatilize from agricultural fields. The agency has issued a Data Call-In Notice requiring manufacturers to conduct a field volatility study under real-world agricultural conditions.
The review will focus on inhalation exposure, documented safety concerns, current science, protective measures, and alternative approaches. EPA says the resulting data, methods, and updated risk analysis will be made public and opened for comment.
For producers, the process could affect future paraquat labels, restrictions, application practices, or availability for use.
