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RochesterEnvironment.com

Pesticide Newslinks - Rochester, NY area 

RochesterEnvironment.com

These NewsLinks represent a decade of ferreting out local online NewsLinks to the issue of Pesticides. 

The more recent stories are on the top and oldest at the bottom of this list.  GOT AN ENVIRONMENTAL STORY ABOUT THE ROCHESTER, NY AREA FROM A CREDIBLE SOURCE? SEND IT TO ME! Looking for something specific. Use Control + F and search for it on this page.

And, although many of these links no longer work, I believe that it is important to be able to find that these stories have existed for ferreting out existing or impending environmental problems. The repercussions of pollution or overuse of a resource often takes a long time for us to recognize and when we finally do, it is invaluable to be able to track the history of various issues before they found a tipping point and became a crisis. Students, scientists, historians, and citizens alike should benefit from being able to follow the thread of an issue back through time.

2010

• Prenatal Pesticide Exposure May Raise Risk of Attention Issues in Kids THURSDAY, Aug. 19 (HealthDay News) -- Scientists have noted a possible increased risk for attention disorders in children who were exposed to organophosphate pesticides while in the womb. The effect was not significant at the age of 3 but clearly showed at age 5, according to the report from California researchers that appears in the Aug. 19 issue of Environmental Health Perspectives.  (August 19, 2010) BusinessWeek - Business News, Stock Market & Financial Advice [more on Pesticides in our area]
• DEC working to encourage organic services for lawns | democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle Hoping to encourage New Yorkers to go natural, state officials have launched a Be Green program to educate and license lawn care and landscape companies to provide organic services, free of pesticides and synthetic fertilizers. (June 15, 2010) Democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle | Rochester news, community, entertainment, yellow pages and classifieds. Serving Rochester, New York [more on Pesticides in our area]
• State Health Commissioner Says 'Less Is Best' for Pesticide Use ALBANY., N.Y. (June 10, 2010) - State Health Commissioner Richard F. Daines, M.D., today said New Yorkers should avoid using pesticides when possible and take steps to avoid harm when the use of pesticides is necessary. "It's important to recognize that most pesticides are poisons intended to kill pests, but they can also harm you, your family and pets, if not used properly," Commissioner Daines said. "Try to avoid using pesticides, and exercise caution if you must use them." Most animal pests and weeds can be managed without the use of chemical pesticides. Often, eliminating the conditions that attract pests and allow them to survive and multiply is the key to pest control. It is easier to prevent pests than to control them once they have arrived. (June 10, 2010) New York State Department of Health [more on Pesticides in our area]
• 06/02/2010: EPA Proposes New Permit Requirements for Pesticide Discharges: Action would reduce amount of pesticides discharged and protect America’s waters WASHINGTON - The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is proposing a new permit requirement that would decrease the amount of pesticides discharged to our nation's waters and protect human health and the environment. This action is in response to an April 9, 2009 court decision that found that pesticide discharges to U.S. waters were pollutants, thus requiring a permit.  (June 02, 2010) US Environmental Protection Agency [more on Pesticides in our area]
• 05/18/2010: EPA Helps Americans Get Ready for Summer with Insect Repellents WASHINGTON – The arrival of warmer weather signals the return of biting insects. Recognizing that, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, which regulates pesticides, has updated its insect repellent Web page. By reading and following label directions, the use of repellents can reduce or eliminate the discomfort of insect bites. Ticks can transmit serious diseases such as lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, and other serious diseases. Repellents also curtail the spread of such mosquito-borne diseases as St. Louis encephalitis and West Nile virus. (May 18, 2010)  [more on Pesticides in our area]
• New ban on lawn chemical use OK'd - Canandaigua, NY - MPNnow Canandaigua, N.Y. — A bill that would ban the use of herbicides at schools and day care centers has been passed by both chambers of the state Legislature and is now awaiting Gov. David Paterson’s signature. “It basically bans the use of synthetic pesticides on the athletic fields and playgrounds of public and private schools,” said Assembly Minority Leader Brian Kolb, R-Canandaigua. (May 14, 2010) Home - Canandaigua, NY - MPNnow [more on Pesticides in our area]
• Pesticide bill goes to Paterson | democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle Long-sought legislation that would restrict the use of toxic pesticides at schools and day care centers has passed both the state Assembly and Senate and been sent to Gov. David Paterson for his signature. The bill, which passed both houses Tuesday, would bar schools and day care centers from applying most pesticides to "playgrounds, turf, athletic or playing fields." Certain products, such as small-scale aerosol sprays to combat bee or spider infestations, would be allowed. Schools or centers could apply to county or state officials for emergency permission to use other products. (May 06/2010) Democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle | Rochester news, community, entertainment, yellow pages and classifieds. Serving Rochester, New York [more on Pesticides in our area]
• State assembly passes bill banning use of pesticides on school playing fields, playgrounds | Albany, NY -- The state Assembly on Tuesday approved a measure banning the use of pesticides on school playing fields and day care playgrounds, a measure identical to a bill the Senate passed last month. (May 4, 2010) Syracuse NY Local News, Breaking News, Sports & Weather - syracuse.com [more on Pesticides in our area]
  

2009

• Canandaigua Council rejects ban on lawn chemicals - Canandaigua, NY - MPNnow Canandaigua, N.Y. — The City Council last night rejected a ban on the use of lawn chemicals on city-owned property. Instead, the council formally adopted its current practice of integrated pest management, which avoids the use of all phosphorous-containing fertilizers on city-owned property, except during the first growing season of new lawns or where there is a “demonstrated phosphorous deficiency.” (December 18, 09) [more on Pesticides in our area]
• Canandaigua committee to discuss lawn chemical policy tonight - Canandaigua, NY - MPNnow Canandaigua, N.Y. — The city’s Environmental Committee will once again examine the policy for the use of lawn chemicals on city-owned property at its meeting Tuesday night.  (December 8, 09) http://www.mpnnow.com/ [more on Pesticides in our area]
• 10/20/2009: New EPA Information on Insect Repellents New EPA Information on Insect Repellents  WASHINGTON – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has launched a new Web page containing product information on certain skin-applied insect repellents. EPA’s goal is to provide the public with information on registered insect repellents and their effectiveness claims in a clear, consistent, and user-friendly format. “EPA’s release of information on the effectiveness of insect repellents will help American consumers select the right product for their needs and protect themselves and their children from potentially devastating diseases spread by mosquitoes and ticks, such as West Nile virus and Lyme disease,” said Steve Owens, assistant administrator for EPA’s Office of Prevention, Pesticides and Toxic Substances. “This Web-based dissemination of information supports Administrator Jackson’s goals of transparency and public access and protecting children’s health.” Insect Repellents: Use and Effectiveness | Pesticides | US EPA |  U.S. EPA Newsroom - News Releases (October 20, 09)  [more on Pesticides in our area]
• City set to make decision on use of lawn chemicals - Canandaigua, NY - MPNnow Canandaigua, N.Y. — More than six years after environmental advocate Joel Freedman first penned a letter to the editor pleading with his fellow Canandaigua city residents to “just say no to lawn poisons,” the City Council looks ready to act on his advice. (October 12, 09) Home - Canandaigua, NY - MPNnow [more on Pesticides in our area]
• Governor Also Announces Pesticide Reduction Plan to Safeguard Parks and Protect Environment | Governor Paterson today also announced an initiative to substantially reduce pesticide use throughout the State park system. The pesticide reduction plan targets areas frequented by children, such as beaches, playgrounds, picnic areas, baseball fields, campgrounds, and hiking trails. (April 22, 09)  (April 22, 09) www.ny.gov/governor

2008

• State to regulate bug bombs - ALBANY - New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Commissioner Pete Grannis Friday announced that the state will be taking action to address the risks posed by total release foggers, also known as "bug bombs," in the wake of a new federal report detailing hazards and injuries related to the product. (Oct 18, 08) New York State News on the Net!
• Group Calls on Schools to Go Pesticide-Free - The group Rochesterians Against the Misuse of Pesticides -- or RAMP -- is calling on schools to "go green" when it comes to pest control. They're also renewing their call that synthetic turf poses a health threat. (Sept 25, 08) WXXI NewsRoom
• The Canadian Press: Ontario joins Quebec in banning pesticides across the province TORONTO — Ontario joined Quebec in banning the sale and cosmetic use of pesticides Wednesday, but critics say the move will actually weaken existing anti-pesticide rules across the province. The ban was the last government-backed bill to be rammed through before the legislature adjourned for the summer, passing 56-17 over the objections of health groups and municipalities. (June 19, 08) The Canadian Press:
• PESTICIDE BAN? - The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is taking steps to ban a pesticide used on crops. The agency says the pesticide is toxic to wildlife. Rebecca Williams reports the manufacturer might take the EPA to court:http://www.environmentreport.org/

2007

• County commercial pesticide use falls — Commercial pesticide use reported in Monroe County dropped by 14 percent between 2004 and 2005, according to a report recently released by the state Department of Environmental Conservation. Genesee, Livingston, Ontario and Orleans counties also saw drops over this time period, while in Wayne County, commercial pesticide use rose by 36 percent in the period, the most recent for which figures are available. For additional information about pesticide use in New York, go to www.dec.ny.gov/chemical/298.html  (October 11, 2007) Democrat & Chronicle
• Pesticide law takes hold — but its when-to varies - 48-hour notification rule broadly interpreted Supporters of the pesticide Neighbor Notification Law say that alerting neighbors beforehand permits them to take precautionary steps, while lawn care companies consider the law an unnecessary burden — but one that cannot be ignored. (May 23, 2007) Democrat & Chronicle
• MPNnow.com: Mixed reviews on lawn-care pamphlet - Canandaigua's effort to educate homeowners on pesticides and fertilizers is watered down, some say. City officials hope education will curb the overuse of pesticides and fertilizers polluting lake and ground water. Copies of the pamphlet, "Healthy Lawns for Canandaigua Lake," were mailed the first week of March to some 3,600 city homeowners. The facts and figures were compiled in collaboration with the Lake Watershed Council and the Cornell Cooperative Extension. (March 31, 07) MPNnow.com: Rochester and Western Finger Lakes News, Entertainment, Sports, Opinions, Photos and More
• Food for Thought: Farm Fresh Pesticides, Science News Online, July 8, 2006 U.S. agriculture has developed a heavy reliance on chemicals to safeguard crops from yield-robbing weeds. However, many of those herbicides can pose substantial health risks to people, pets, and wildlife, which is why laws prescribe how some of these chemicals are handled in fields. A study now finds that trace quantities of such agricultural chemicals nonetheless find their way into consumers' homes—not on the fruits and vegetables they buy but probably by hitchhiking on dust. The findings are disturbing for a number of reasons, not the least of which is the link between pesticide exposure and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, a malignancy whose incidence has exploded during recent years. Indeed, the new study was as an offshoot of a larger non-Hodgkin's lymphoma study financed by the National Cancer Institute.

2006

• Mom says company skirting pesticide law - Lawn care firm says its flag notices satisfy spraying rule — Dina Stein doesn't expect her neighbors to refrain from using lawn pesticides — that's their right, she says. But this Brighton mother wants the choice to shield her children, Emma, 4, and Sam, 2, from unnecessary exposure. She thought that's what the county's new neighbor notification law provided, and in her suburban neighborhood with its lush green lawns, she fully expected to receive a letter from a lawn care company at least once this spring. But when a company showed up to spray her neighbor's lawn last week, claiming that a small orange plastic flag spiked into the edge of her lawn a month ago constituted prior notification, Stein was shocked. - (May 9, 2006) Democrat and Chronicle
•  Local watchdog organization criticizes several museums - — An environmental watchdog group is asking some of Rochester's most notable public facilities to stop maintaining their grounds with hazardous chemicals. Rochesterians Against the Misuse of Pesticides revealed results Monday of a telephone survey to determine what types of pesticides, if any, are used at six Rochester public attractions: Rochester Museum & Science Center, Susan B. Anthony House, Genesee Country Village and Museum, Strong Museum, Memorial Art Gallery and George Eastman House. (February 21, 2006) Democrat and Chronicle
•  Kids exposed to "limited" chemicals The Rush-Henrietta School District uses two pesticides outdoors, but a local group says there is a better way.  When the bees are stinging and weeds encroaching, Rush-Henrietta School District uses pesticides to stomp them out. Henrietta Post

2005

•  Most schools still use pesticides, report says -— Pesticides have been linked to cancers, asthma and a range of other health problems, but only about a quarter of local schools avoid using the chemicals, according to a report released Thursday by Rochesterians Against the Misuse of Pesticides. "Twenty years ago, everyone was using pesticides, inside and outside," said Judy Braiman, RAMP spokeswoman, who has led the periodic surveys since they began in 1987. "Now, with what we know about pesticides ... I'm surprised so many are still using (these chemicals)."  (November 4, 2005) Democrat and Chronicle
•  Chemical applied to Sodus Bay to get rid of weeds, health guidelines issued - If you plan on heading to Sodus Bay you might want to wait. A strong chemical is now in the water to help clear the bay of stubborn seaweed and other weeds. But, some say that chemical could cause health problems. A group of neighbors trying to stop the treatment from happening lost their battle this time but are still looking for answers when it comes to their safety. It's a big concern for people who live near the bay including Debra Brown. “This is not a proper time to do it and people coming in on boats in and having no idea that this is happy at all.”  (July 6, 2005) 10NBC / WHEC TV-10
•  Pesticide appliers fight law - Lawn care companies push for registry instead of notification. On Tuesday, three separate events in Rochester underscored a months-long local battle over a proposed law that would restrict commercial pesticide use in Monroe County. Lawmakers are deliberating a notification law that passed in 2000 in Albany, and has an opt-in provision for counties. (May 11, 2005) Democrat & Chronicle

2004

•  Deal on proposed pesticide law flops - Third public hearing next week on neighbor notification bill -— A compromise on a controversial pesticide notification bill failed this week, ensuring that a bitter months-long debate will go into its third public hearing Tuesday. The bill, introduced in January by County Executive Maggie Brooks, has drawn hundreds of people to legislature meetings since March. It pits certified pesticide applicators against people who say the chemicals are a health threat.  (May 4, 2005) Democrat & Chronicle
•  Lawn sprays evoke passion -(March 14, 2005)  Pesticide applicators fight county neighbor-notification bill - The Neighbor Notification Law would require commercial pesticide applicators to give 48 hours' written notice to neighbors within 150 feet of their clients before any pesticides are sprayed.  Schied suggested that a coalition made up of industry, agency and academic representatives, along with concerned citizens, look for "the best option" for notification — maybe even create "a model for the state." To the lawn care industry, that means a voluntary registration program, for those neighbors who want to be notified. Skeptics disagree. "Only under the force of law will residents have a real health choice," said Frank Regan, co-chairman of the Sierra Club, Rochester Regional Group, who has studied the pesticide issue for a decade. In the seven other counties with the law, he said, not one lawn care company has gone out of business and the related expenses of county health departments have been minimal. "This law is not the monster characterized by the lawn care industry," said Regan. "The costs are modest, and the public benefits are large."--Democrat & Chronicle
•  Pesticide plan stirs call for review - 62 people offer views on neighbor notification proposal. (March 9, 2005) — Rochester-area lawn care professionals Tuesday night called on Monroe County lawmakers to conduct a "thorough, authoritative" study on the environmental effects of a proposed law that would further restrict the use of pesticides. Democrat and Chronicle
•  Pesticide warning bill clears 1st hurdle - Committee votes 5-2 to send measure to County Legislature - (March 3, 2005) — A proposed Monroe County law that would increase the regulation of residential pesticide use passed its first procedural hurdle Wednesday. After testimony from 42 speakers, the county's environment and public works committee voted 5 to 2 to allow the measure to be considered by the full legislature next week. Democrat and Chronicle  
•  County starts work on pesticide bill - (January 28, 2005) — Lawyers for Monroe County started work Thursday on drafting a proposed law that would require residential pesticide applicators to give neighbors 48 hours notice before spraying. It would make Monroe only the eighth county among the state's 62 counties to opt into New York's Neighborhood Notification law, passed in 2000. The bill will be introduced as early as next month, said Larry Staub, spokesman for county executive Maggie Brooks. (January 30, 2005) . Democrat and Chronicle
• Monroe may be 1st GOP county to OK pesticide bill (February 24, 2005) — In a surprise announcement during a community forum yesterday evening, Monroe  County Legislature majority leader Bill Smith, R-Pittsford, predicted that a controversial pesticide notification bill will pass "with a broad majority" this year. What's next The proposed bill, called a "referral," will be discussed at 4 p.m. March 2 by Monroe County's Environment and Public Works Committee. If the referral passes, it will be on the agenda at 6 p.m. March 8, during the full meeting of the county legislature. A public hearing will precede a vote. http://www.democratandchronicle.com/
•  Pesticide notification law stirs debate - Opponents are pushing for a voluntary registry. The question of whether to participate in an optional state law requiring neighbors to be notified 48 hours in advance of pesticide spraying is stirring controversy in Monroe County. East Rochester Post
•  County Considers Pesticide Law - It was standing room only in the Monroe County legislature chambers Tuesday. Dozens of people turned out to tell lawmakers what they think about law aimed at regulating the use of pesticides. State lawmakers passed the Neighborhood Notification Law in 2000. They gave counties the option of adopting it. The law requires that residents be notified if pesticides are being used in their neighborhood. Monroe county lawmakers are considering making it law here. (March 13, 2005) R News: As It Happens, Where It Happens
•  Democrat & Chronicle: Group decries pesticide use — Area hospitals use too many pesticides, increasing risk to staff, visitors and patients, a local advocacy group said Tuesday. “There are safer alternatives,” said Judy Braiman, co-founder of Rochesterians against the Misuse of Pesticides, which surveyed hospital pesticide use this year and in 1996. (February 25, 2004) Democrat and Chronicle
•  Democrat & Chronicle: Survey: Hospitals overuse pesticides— Eight years after the first survey, a local advocacy group says local hospitals are still using too many pesticides inside and outside their buildings.“We are not accusing anyone of doing anything illegal,” said Judy Braiman, co-founder of Rochesterians against the Misuse of Pesticides. “But there are safer alternatives.” Those include ant traps, sealing cracks, low toxicity applications like boric acid and better housekeeping.  (February 24, 2004) Democrat and Chronicle
•  WXXI: New Law Limits Arsenic Exposure At Playgrounds/Parks (2003-08-11) ROCHESTER, NEW YORK (2003-08-11) Governor George Pataki signed a new law that minimizes human exposure to picnic tables that have been treated with arsenic.
  Judy Braiman, with the local environmental group known as RAMP, called this a significant victory for everyone. Braiman's organization tested five public playgrounds in Monroe County recently for treated wood that contained arsenic. (August 13, 2003) Public NewsRoom
•  Democrats criticize tabling of pesticide notification law - Democrats are criticizing the tabling of a pesticide notification law in Monroe County. The proposal would require neighbors to be told when outdoor pesticides are being applied. (May 12, 2003) MSNBC Local News
•  Democrat & Chronicle: Pesticide bill's rejection irks county Democrats — Advocates of a Democratic proposal to require notifying neighbors before spraying pesticide said Monday that they weren’t given enough notice before the proposal was rejected. The proposal was rejected last Wednesday at a committee meeting of the Monroe County Legislature.  (May 13, 2003) Democrat and Chronicle

2003

•  Groups Call For State To Restrict Pesticide Use (Albany-AP) -- Two statewide environmental groups are calling on the state Legislature to restrict urban pesticide use. The New York Public Interest Research Group and Environmental Advocates held a news conference in Albany to release a report on pesticide use. (January 17, 2003) WOKR-TV 13 || ROCHESTER
•  Democrat & Chronicle: High pesticide use in N.Y. draws warnings — ALBANY — The amount of pesticides used by New Yorkers is “too high and too dangerous” and has hurt the environment and public health, two statewide environmental groups said Thursday. Westchester and Monroe counties were among the top areas of pesticide use, along with Nassau, Suffolk and Erie counties as well as New York City.  (January 17, 2003) Democrat and Chronicle
•  Democrat & Chronicle: Dems urge advance notice of pesticides — A committee of the Monroe County Legislature will consider a Democratic proposal that would require commercial applicators to notify neighbors before spraying pesticide. The proposal, to be considered by the Environment and Public Works Committee, would require commercial applicators to give written notification to abutting properties within 150 feet of the application 48 hours before spraying. (January 7, 2003) Democrat and Chronicle

2002

•  Monroe County Legislators Propose Pesticide Notice (Rochester,NY-AP) - Four county legislators are proposing a law that would require Monroe County to give 48 hours notice before spraying pesticides within 150 feet of anybody's residence. (December 16, 2002) WOKR-TV 13 || ROCHESTER
•  Arsenic Ban in Playgrounds Two local lawmakers want New York's governor to sign into law a ban on arsenic treated wood for use in playgrounds. (August 8, 2002) R News: Your NewsChannel
• Democrat & Chronicle: Court upholds NY pesticide-notice law  — ALBANY -- The state's highest court refused Monday to hear challenges from lawn care companies against New York's pesticide notification law, which requires them to provide notice before they spray pesticides or herbicides on a nearby lawn. (July 2, 2002) DemocratandChronicle.com
• WXXI: Herbicide Spraying to Begin (2002-06-17)  ROCHESTER, NY (2002-06-17) Monroe County will soon begin the annual spraying of herbicides on county maintained guardrails and signposts. The application of the heribicides is designed to maintain the visibility of signs and guardrails for motorists. It's opposed by groups including Rochestarians Against the Misuse of Pesticides, who have pushed the county over the years to cut down on the amount of spraying and to give the public more information about when and where it's happening so people can avoid the treated areas. (06/18/02)  Public NewsRoom
• Buffalo News - Hot debate on pesticide notification For Snyder resident Kathie Augustyn, the issue of pesticide notification is one of life or death. She tried for nine years to find out when her neighbors were going to have their lawn treated with pesticides so she could close her windows or take her two children away from the area. But in 1995, her 10-year-old son Michael died of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, a type of cancer that has been linked to pesticide exposure. Augustyn said she believes her neighbors' pesticide-treated lawn contributed to her son's death.  (June 12, 2002) Buffalo.Com - Everything Buffalo!
• Pesticides and Children a Dangerous Mix ALBANY, May 24, 2002 - As Memorial Day approaches, ushering in the season for outdoor activities, New York State Health Commissioner Antonia C. Novello, M.D., M.P.H., Dr.P.H., is urging New Yorkers to protect their children from being harmed by pesticides. "Stinging and biting insects are a particular nuisance during the spring and summer months, but we need to use insecticides and other pesticides with extreme care. Pesticides are inherently toxic and the State Health Department's Pesticide Poisoning Registry has received many reports of children who were rushed to hospitals after accidentally eating or coming into contact with pesticides," Dr. Novello said. Health Department records show that children often are exposed to dangerous pesticides at home  (May 30, 2202) New York State Department of Health Web Site
• Bill addresses poisonous playgrounds Local legislators seek to ban the sale of potentially hazardous pressure-treated lumber for playgrounds. New York could become the first state to ban the sale of potentially hazardous pressure-treated lumber for use in public playgrounds. "We're thrilled," said Judy Braiman, co-founder of Rochestarians Against the Misuse of Pesticides. "This would be the first statewide bill in the country, as far as we know." Rochestarians Against the Misuse of Pesticides have long protested the use of CCA treated lumber. (April 24, 2002)  Henrietta Post
• Proposed Law Bans Use Of Treated Wood For Playgrounds Rochester, NY - Local lawmakers are behind a proposed law that would ban the use of pressure-treated wood, which contains arsenic, to build public playgrounds. The law would protect children from coming into contact with the arsenic, which is a known carcinogen. If the law passes, the wood would have to be treated at least once a year with two coats of sealant; the groundcover would also need to be treated, and any new playgrounds would have to be built with safer wood.  (April 11, 2002) iKnowRochester.com
• Democrat & Chronicle: Study cites action on playsets of toxic wood — A survey of 28 area playgrounds that have arsenic-treated wooden equipment shows that 13 have been torn down and most of the others have been tested for residues. Many wooden playsets are made of lumber treated with the preservative chromated copper arsenate (or CCA). Arsenic, which is poisonous in some synthetic forms, can contaminate soils or rub off on clothing or skin. (April 11, 2002) DemocratandChronicle.com
• Workshops set on pesticide disposal The program is free for those who qualify, and the first workshop is tonight.
  Farmers and school districts, hospitals and other public institutions may safely dispose of unwanted pesticides on March 22. Agricultural Pesticide Clean Sweep Day will be available in Ontario, Seneca and Yates counties for those who qualify for the free program. (February 28, 2002) Daily Messenger
• Chemical-free lawn care taught  Even though it's winter, it's not too early to think about grooming your lawn. Experts from the Great Lawns/Great Lakes program will hold a series of workshops beginning today through February on lawn care that minimizes fertilizers and pesticides.  (Tuesday, January 15, 2002) DemocratandChronicle.com
• Henrietta delays talk on play set -- The Henrietta Town Board, meeting Wednesday, will defer any discussion of a controversial wooden playground set that a local activist group claims is on soil contaminated with arsenic. (Tuesday, January 15, 2002) DemocratandChronicle.com

2001

• Playgrounds take to plastic Splinters, chemicals lower luster wooden play sets had - Since last spring, federal regulators have been wrangling over how to test for arsenic in playground sets made from wood treated with chromated copper arsenate (CCA). (Wednesday, December 5, 2001) -DEMOCRAT AND CHRONICLE
• Plan would phase out town's use of pesticides  Amherst officials hope to begin phasing out the town's use of pesticides by next spring - joining ranks with Buffalo and West Seneca, which have similar bans - according to a spokesman for the Pest Management Commission. (Thursday, November 15, 2001) BuffaloNews.com
• Pesticide law likely to remain on books Albany -- Measure that requires notification of neighbors is expected to be made permanent despite opposition After an eight-month test period that defied predictions of suburban neighborhood turf wars and financial doom for lawn care companies, an Albany County law requiring notification of neighbors when pesticides are used is on track to become permanent. (Tuesday, November 13, 2001) TimesUnion.com
• Arsenic Playground Rochesterarians Against the Misuse of Pesticides or RAMP claims its test show the wood in some area playgrounds have arsenic.  (Friday, October 26, 2001) RNews.
• Environmental Group Calling For Testing Of Rochester-Area Playgrounds  Rochester, NY - A local environmental group is sharing some test results about playgrounds that are raising red flags. The group, Rochesterians Against the Misuse of Pesticides, is concerned that the soil at several Rochester-area playgrounds contain dangerous amounts of arsenic. The group contends that the arsenic is coming from the pressure-treated wood used in the playgrounds at the sites. (Thursday, October 25, 2001) 
• Station's pest management program to receive grant money GENEVA - The state Agricultural Experiment Station's Integrated Pest Management program will receive part of a $518,333 grant over a three-year period. Dr. Curtis Petzoldt said the station will use the money in conjunction with programs from Massachusetts and Ohio to study ways of growing cucurbits - a group of plants that include squashes, gourds and melons - using fewer pesticides. (Wednesday, October 3, 2001) Finger Lakes Times
• Pesticide warning law hard to apply Official says county can't check that all stores, residents are following notification rules A law intended to illuminate the dangers of pesticides used by homeowners and commercial applicators on lawns is still leaving many people in Albany County in the dark, according to a spot check of stores. (Monday, September 10, 2001) Times Union
• Pesticide law looms for area's schools - Within the next few days, K-12 schools statewide will be required to give parents, guardians and staff the chance to be notified in advance of pesticide use. The new law, which took effect July 1, covers all private, parochial, public and Board of Cooperative Educational Services (BOCES) schools. (Monday, September 3, 2001) - -DEMOCRAT AND CHRONICLE
• DEC approves spraying wetlands Power Authority to use herbicides on rights of way in Rochester area  -- The New York Power Authority this week received permission from the state Department of Environmental Conservation to spray herbicidesin wetlands statewide.  (Monday, August 20, 2001)  -DEMOCRAT AND CHRONICLE
• DEC Issues Final Report on 1999 Pesticide Use in New York State Information on Amount and Types of Pesticides Applied Will Assist Research Community New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Commissioner Erin M. Crotty today released a final report listing the amount of commercial pesticide applications in New York State during 1999. --NYS DEC. 
• Activists protest herbicide spraying Local environmentalists are urging Monroe County officials to rethink plans to spray herbicides around guardrails throughout the county. (Monday, August 6, 2001) - -DEMOCRAT AND CHRONICLE
• DEC Announces Grants to Promote Alternatives to Pesticides 15 Projects Receive Funding to Help Reduce Pesticide Use in Schools and Public Buildings New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Commissioner Erin M. Crotty today announced more than $530,000 in grants to local governments, schools and not-for-profit organizations for 15 projects which promote alternatives to pesticide use in public buildings and schools. The grant funding is intended to promote non-toxic pest control methods to reduce the amount of pesticides used in the State. (Thursday, May 17, 2001)  Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Press Releases environment. 
• Pesticide violation closes day care GREECE  The state closed a Greece day care center yesterday after day care workers exposed children to insect pesticides, according to the state Office of Children and Family Services. (Friday, May 11, 2001) --DEMOCRAT AND CHRONICLE
• Committee discusses residents' pesticide use GENEVA - Bees, wasps and ants are bugging city residents enough to warrant pesticide use, according to a recent survey. One-page surveys were sent out earlier this year to each Geneva household to determine the amount of pesticides used in the city and to get residents' opinions on pesticide use. (April 4, 2001) Finger Lakes Times
• Combination of Pesticides Linked to Parkinson's Disease ROCHESTER, New York, January 3, 2001 (ENS) - A combination of two widely used agricultural pesticides - but neither one alone - creates in mice the exact pattern of brain damage that doctors see in patients with Parkinson's disease. The research offers the most compelling evidence yet that everyday environmental factors may play a role in the development of the disease.
• STATES SEEK LABELING OF ALL PESTICIDE INGREDIENTS Four Attorneys General File Federal Lawsuit to Require Full Pesticide Labeling New York Attorney General Eliot Spitzer, Connecticut Attorney General Richard Blumenthal, Massachusetts Attorney General Tom Reilly and Alaska Attorney General Bruce Botelho today sued the federal Environmental Protection Agency for failing to act on an essential public health petition relating to pesticides labeling. -- Office of NYS Attorney General Eliot Spitzer.
• EPA Announces its Preferred Cleanup Plan-- Get informed about the GE PCB controversy from the EPA on the Hudson River cleanup. 

2000

• Pesticide notification shelved -- Monroe County lawmakers yesterday decided not to approve tougher pesticide notification standards for 2001. Republicans who control the County Legislature took their lead from Republican County Executive Jack Doyle's administration, which said the county didn't have enough time to study the new standards before a state-imposed Dec. 31 deadline to approve them for the coming year. (December 7, 2000) DEMOCRAT AND CHRONICLE
• Major pesticide to be banned for home use The most widely used pesticide nationwide by homeowners on their lawns will be phased out during the next four years because it poses a health risk, particularly to children, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced yesterday. (December 6, 2000) TheJournalNews.com
• County Drops Pesticide Law No action will be taken until March Onondaga County lawmakers Monday decided not to enforce a new state law that would require neighbors to be informed about pesticide spraying. But legislators left the door open to revisit the issue next year. (December 5, 2000) Syracuse News. 
• Environmental Groups Release Report Showing High Pesticide Use in the Greater Rochester Area (Rochester) – Environmental Advocates and the New York Public Interest Research Group (NYPIRG) today released a report on pesticide use patterns in the Greater Rochester area of Monroe, Wayne, Livingston, Ontario, and Genesee counties during 1998, which reveals that an enormous amount of toxic pesticides are being used in the region on a daily basis. In 1998, 313,000 gallons and 2.2 million pounds of pesticides were reported used by commercial applicators or sold to farmers in the five-county region. (November 9, 2000)Environmental Advocates  
• Pesticides in Monroe County Two statewide environmental groups claim pesticides are used in massive amounts in the greater Rochester area. The groups issued a report that analyzed pesticide use and sales data for 1998. The results cover Monroe, Genesee, Livingston, Ontario and Wayne Counties. (November 30, 2000) WHEC
• Environmental Groups Release Report Showing Alarmingly High Pesticide Use in New York State (Albany) – Environmental Advocates and the New York Public Interest Research Group (NYPIRG) today released a 44-page report, The Toxic Treadmill: Pesticide Use and Sales in New York State 1997-1998, which reveals that an enormous amount of toxic pesticides are being used in New York State on a daily basis. (November 9, 2000) Environmental Advocates New York Public Interest Research Group
• Survey to determine pesticide use among Geneva residents GENEVA - A local committee is seeking information to determine if pesticide use is bugging residents. (November 2, 2000)  Finger Lakes Times Online
• Counties weigh N.Y. pesticide law  Property owners could have to notify neighbors in advance before spraying pesticides, thanks to a state law signed recently by Gov. George Pataki.-(October 30, 2000)  Star Gazette
• City Helps Rid Neighborhood Of Pests  Thousands of German cockroaches have become a big problem for people living on Mohawk Street in Rochester. (October 9, 2000) RochesterToday
• Monroe study to weigh pesticide notification law -- Monroe County will conduct a study about a key section of a new state pesticide notification law that won't take effect here unless it has county approval. (October 5, 2000) DEMOCRAT AND CHRONICLE
• Activists protest pesticide proposal Local environmental advocates Wednesday urged rejection of a proposal to study a state law regarding pesticide spraying. (October 4, 2000) DEMOCRAT AND CHRONICLE
• UR discovers link to Parkinson's Study is the first to tie a brew of farm chemicals to the disease. (September 8, 2000) DEMOCRAT AND CHRONICLE
• SPITZER CALLS ON FEDS TO LIST SECRET INGREDIENTS IN PESTICIDES Unlisted "Inert" Ingredients May Pose Serious Health Risks Attorney General Eliot Spitzer today called on the federal government to require that product labels list the secret "inert" ingredients that can make up 95 percent or more of pesticide products. (September 2, 2000) Office of the NYS Attorney General 
• Fishermen Will Sue Makers Of Pesticides A group of lobstermen from Connecticut are to file a $75-million suit today against the makers of pesticides that were sprayed last year in their state and New York to kill mosquitoes carrying the West Nile Virus. (August 24, 2000) Newsday.com
• Spitzer targets pesticide labeling ALBANY -- The federal government should require pesticide manufacturers to fully disclose their "inert'' ingredients since they may pose serious health risks, state Attorney General Eliot Spitzer said Wednesday. (August 24, 2000) TimesUnion.com 
• Gov Signs Pesticides Bill Required 48-hour notice toughest in nation   Pataki used the backdrop of a Syosset school playground yesterday to sign the country's strictest pesticide application notification law. (August 23, 2000) NYDailyNews.com 
• New pesticide law But what if your neighbor is spraying and you didn’t know? (August 23, 2000) TOP NEWS From WHEC, and MSNBC
• Neighborhoods To Be Notified About Pesticide Use A new state law is on the books that requires companies using pesticides to notify people nearby. (August 23, 2000) RochesterToday
• Pataki Set to Sign Pesticide Law Eight years after Long Island environmentalists first began pushing for it, the nation's first law requiring neighbor notification for pesticide spraying is set to be signed today by Gov. George Pataki at a ceremony in Syosset. (August 21, 2000) NewsDay.com 
• Compromise found on pesticide limits State lawmakers, after battling over the issue for at least three years, on Monday announced a compromise bill governing the use of pesticides in neighborhoods, as well as inside and outside schools and day care centers. (June 20, 2000) - -DEMOCRAT AND CHRONICLE
• Pesticides raise worries Schools report should shake up a lot of teachers and parents, policy adviser says (June 19, 2000) - -DEMOCRAT AND CHRONICLE
• Roadside spraying for weeds is now being done throughout Ontario County. An Ohio-based company will be doing the spraying, which controls weeds under guardrails and sign posts with herbicides. All 450 miles of roads maintained by Ontario County will be sprayed by July 7th. (June 14, 2000) The Town Crier, Canandaigua. 
• City gets pesticide committee Geneva In response to community concerns about the overuse of pesticides, Mayor Don Cass last night announced the formation of a pesticide committee to look at the issue. (June 8, 2000) Finger Lakes Times
• Pesticide Residues Seen Too High in Children's Food Favorite children's foods like apples and grapes have high levels of toxic residues from pesticides, Consumers Union, a nonprofit advocacy group, said on Tuesday, urging the U.S. government to do more to ban the use of dangerous chemicals. The whole report is available on http://www.ecologic-ipm.com/PDP/Update-Childrens-Foods.pdf. --Reuters.
• EPA Concludes Common Pesticide Dursban Dangerous The Environmental Protection Agency has concluded that one of the most commonly used pesticides, a compound sold as Dursban and found in dozens of home-and-garden products, may be more dangerous to people than once believed, The Washington Post reported Thursday.--Reuters. 
• Popular Lawn Chemical May Be Hazardous A common ingredient in many lawn care and pest control products may pose serious health risks. (May 29, 2000) RochesterToday
• The Health Hazard of Pesticides LAWNS TREATED WITH PESTICIDES MAY BE HAZARDOUS PLAYGROUNDS FOR KIDS-- Genesee Valley Parent.
• Pesticides may be ban from use on golf courses In many ways pesticides are part of our lives. They’re used on vegetables, flowers and lawns but, a proposed bill in Albany would ban pesticides on golf courses.-4/26/00--TOP NEWS From WHEC, and MSNBC
• Citizens Group Concerned About Pesticides A local citizens group is concerned about pesticide use by Monroe County.-04/25/00  RochesterToday
• ENVIRONMENTAL INITIATIVE FACT SHEET NYSDOT REGION 4, ROCHESTER Project: Location: Herbicide Alternatives Demonstration I - 490 in Chili