EPA Announces Critical Updates On Streptomycin Usage

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has announced key measures affecting the use of streptomycin on citrus crops, responding to the Ninth Circuit's December 2023 ruling. This decision, which vacated the 2021 registration amendments for two streptomycin sulphate pesticide products, stemmed from the EPA's non-compliance with the Endangered Species Act. These amendments previously authorized time-limited use on citrus crop group 10-10, encompassing oranges, tangerines, limes, grapefruits, and their varieties.

Effective 5 February 2024, following the court's vacating order, the sale or distribution of AGRI-SEED™ 50 WP (also known as Firewall™ 50 WP, EPA Reg. No. 80990-3) and EAC™ Streptomycin Manufacturing Use Product (EPA Reg. No. 91275-1) for use on citrus became illegal. Addressing this, on 4 March 2024, the EPA issued a Notice of Use Termination and an Existing Stocks Order for Time-Limited Use on Citrus Crop Group 10-10 for these products. This directive permits limited sale and distribution of existing stocks, mainly in possession of growers or within the trade channels, and outside pesticide companies' control.

Background Overview

Streptomycin, an antibiotic, has been registered as a pesticide for controlling bacteria, fungi, and algae across various crops since the early 2000s. The 2021 amendments, challenged and subsequently vacated, were initially approved following public commentary and application by the registrants to introduce a new citrus use. The challenge led by Migrant Clinicians Network and allied organizations culminated in the Ninth Circuit's decision, halting the sale and distribution of these products for citrus application.

Details On The Existing Stocks Order

The Existing Stocks Order, under the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA), allows the continued sale and use of existing pesticide stocks following a cancellation or suspension. The recent EPA order outlines provisions for the disposal, lawful export, or relabelling of the streptomycin products by registrants. For downstream sellers, distributors, and end users, the order specifies geographic distinctions, recognizing Florida as the sole state where AGRI-SEED™ 50 WP has been used on citrus. Accordingly, outside Florida, existing stocks can be distributed for use against other diseases like fire blight on apples and pears until 31 May 2024. In Florida, the order permits the use of existing citrus stocks until 31 August 2024, adhering to previously approved labelling guidelines to safeguard human health and the environment.

Looking Forward

The EPA commits to keeping the public and state authorities informed as it continues to assess and address the implications of streptomycin use on citrus. This situation underscores the complex balance between agricultural pest management needs and environmental and legal considerations. Stakeholders are encouraged to consult the EPA's Notice of Use Termination and Existing Stocks Order for comprehensive guidance and compliance requirements.