Suit Accuses EPA of Ignoring Harmful Pesticides

A federal judge is considering whether to dismiss a sweeping lawsuit claiming the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency allowed hundreds of pesticides to be used despite evidence of harmful effects on more than 200 endangered and threatened species. The Center for Biological Diversity and Pesticide Action Network North America allege the EPA has allowed the pesticide use without required consultations with federal agencies to study the impacts. The groups want the court to order the EPA to consult with wildlife experts on the use of 384 pesticides to ensure harmful chemicals aren't sprayed in the habitats of species that include Florida panthers, California condors, piping plovers and Alabama sturgeon. Magistrate Judge Joseph Spero heard arguments on Friday on motions by the EPA and pesticide industry to dismiss the 2011 lawsuit. Spero told attorneys he was initially inclined to grant the EPA's dismissal motion. But after hearing arguments from both sides, the judge said his ruling would not be issued anytime soon, Giese said. After the suit was filed, the EPA and two federal wildlife agencies requested that the National Academy of Sciences National Research Council examine the agencies' responsibilities under the Endangered Species Act, according to the center. The report is expected to be released later this month...more