WASHINGTON, D.C. (RFD-TV) — Agricultural organizations are rolling out a new resource designed to help farmers better understand and comply with Endangered Species Act (ESA) requirements tied to pesticide labels — an area that has become increasingly complex in recent years.
Richard Gupton with the Agricultural Retailers Association (ARA) joined us on Friday’s Market Day Report to explain why the ARA and the Council of Producers and Distributors of Agrotechnology (CPDA) teamed up to create this online resource, how it works, and why clear guidance is essential for both producers and the environment.
In his interview with RFD-TV News, Gupton discussed the challenges farmers often face when interpreting ESA-related label language, noting that confusion can lead to compliance issues despite producers’ best efforts. He shared how the idea originated, stemming from widespread industry feedback requesting clearer, more practical support for understanding EPA and ESA requirements. He also outlined what the new tool provides, including step-by-step guidance and educational materials to help applicators meet regulatory expectations.
Gupton emphasized the importance of protecting endangered species and ecosystems while ensuring farmers can continue to meet production demands, and encouraged farmers, retailers, and applicators to explore the material as they prepare for the upcoming spray season.
Secretary Rollins also met with specialty crop producers at a local strawberry farm to discuss workforce needs and the Trump Administration’s recent wins related to significantly cutting the cost of H-2A labor for California farmers.
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