On Sat, 19 Apr 2003 14:38:51 GMT, Pam wrote:

Suggest you do some further reading (and include some scientific studies rather than simply relying solely on
environmental organizations with their own agenda) - trifluralin is "suspected" of being an endocrine
disruptor, however the endocrine disrupting potential of chemical pesticides is considered to be negligible
compared to those ED sources found in waste treatment plants, animal manure and dietary supplements - heck,
soybeans, apples, wheat and peas are KNOWN endocrine disruptors!

Sounds like more of the Roundup rationale. Gosh, salt is poisonous
too!

While it is certainly appropriate to be concerned about the use of any chemical pesticide (and even so-called
"organic" products) and the effects they may have on long term environmental and health issues, it is equally
important to understand and develop the knowledge base to put the issue into proper perspective. This is an
issue where even the scientists involved in the research have differing opinions as to its significance. The
science is still being developed and the EPA is fully aware of the concern and has mandated additional
testing under new methods of analysis and evaluation as they become available.

And yet you readily accept products and the company funded research.
Are you going to tell me you've never trusted the Dursban sales
pitches?

Knowledge is the key when using any type of pesticide, however it is counterproductive to even those
proponents of pesticide reform (and that includes me!) to involve unfounded hypotheses and scare tactics
rather than relying on scientific testing and documented evidence. I sure don't hear any hue and cry about
using animal manures in one's garden, but they pose a much larger threat to endocrine disruption than do the
appropriate and labeled use of suspected chemical pesticides. And are you going to think twice before eating
your next apple?

You bet I think about what got used in the production of that apple!

A little knowledge is a dangerous thing.

You're right! Some day I'll know as much as you, for now I'll continue
to lack trust in most pesticides and their manufacturers.

pam - gardengal



"As crude a weapon as a cave man's club the chemical barrage has been hurled at the fabric of life."
Rachel Carson