The California Department of Pesticide Regulation on Tuesday unveiled its latest annual Pesticide Use Report, revealing a continued decline in statewide pesticide applications.
According to the report, California applied approximately 176 million pounds of pesticides in 2023, marking a 3% decrease from the previous year and representing the third consecutive year of reductions. This downward trend continues efforts that saw more than a 5% decrease the prior year.
The DPR analysis shows a 34% reduction in potential groundwater contaminants, a 13% decrease in pesticides considered reproductive toxins, a 9% drop in both toxic air contaminants and fumigants, and a 6% decline in carcinogens. It also reflects a 4% increase in the use of biopesticides as alternatives to conventional pesticides.
The sustained declines suggest that integrated pest management strategies, regulatory policies and the adoption of safer alternatives are gaining traction across the state.
Don’t miss a beat! It’s easy to sign up for a FREE month of Agri-Pulse news! For the latest on what’s happening in Washington, D.C. and around the country in agriculture, just click here.
“The continued trend of reduced pesticide use in California complements DPR’s long-term efforts to promote sustainable pest management,” said DPR Director Karen Morrison in a statement.
The report arrives amid mounting environmental justice outcry over spray drift and residues in produce. A DPR study in July found that 97% of sampled fruits and vegetables — across more than 500 locations—showed either no detectable pesticides or residues well below federal safety limits.
For more news, go to Agri-Pulse.com.
