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Pesticides: Environmental Effects |  |
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Related InformationOther Federal Agencies | Databases Other Federal AgenciesFor pesticides that may affect listed species, EPA consults with the
US Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) and/or
the Commerce National Marine Fisheries
Service (NMFS), depending on the species of concern. The services
may issue a biological opinion that includes reasonable and prudent alternatives
or measures in which to avoid jeopardy to the species or minimize incidental
take. The Biological Resources Division
(BRD) of the U.S. Geological Services (USGS)
provides EPA with biomonitoring information on the distribution, productivity,
and health of the Nation's plants, birds, mammals, amphibians, and their
habitats. BRD also provides the Agency with data on the effects of contaminant
exposure to fish and wildlife.
The Water Resources Division (WRD)
of the U.S. Geological Services (USGS) provides EPA with hydrologic data
that describes the occurrence of pesticides and nutrients in the Nation’s
water resources. The Agency uses USGS’ water monitoring data in
its water assessments. The National Agricultural Statistics
Service (NASS) of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) provides
EPA with pesticide usage information which it uses in its risk assessments.
NASS also maintains the National Agricultural Library which contains the
largest collection of agricultural-related information in the world. The Natural Resource Conservation
Service (NRCS) of the U.S. Department of Agriculture USDA provides
soil and water conservation assistance to landowners and managers of natural
resources. NRCS develops conservation programs (e.g., Best Management
Practices) designed to protect vulnerable land and water resources from
agricultural impacts. It also maintains the National Resources Inventory
which describes the status, condition, and trends of soil, water, and
related resources in the United States. The Agricultural Research Service
(ARS) of the U.S. Department of Agriculture USDA conducts research
on pesticide fate, transport, application technology, water and soil quality
impacts. ARS develops simulation models, conducts water monitoring of
pesticides, conducts pesticide runoff/leaching, drift erosion, and nonpoint
pollution research. EPA uses this research in its pesticide risk assessments.
These measures are the basis for use limitations found on the pesticide labels or in county maps and bulletins. In some cases, EPA has taken steps to incorporate use limitations during the registration process to minimize anticipated effects and make lengthy consultation unnecessary.
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