California Women for Agriculture recognizes that the judicious use of pest control products is necessary to combat crop-damaging insects, weeds, and, plant and soil-borne diseases. As part of an integrated pest management (IPM) program, pest control products are needed to produce enough high-quality, safe, and affordable food, animal feed, and fiber to meet the demands of this nation, and to assist in feeding the world in a sustainable manner. We understand the need for regulations - on a state and federal level - for the production, distribution, and application of pest control products to ensure the safety of the users, agricultural producers, and public. We encourage continued development and improvement of IPM techniques and disease-resistant plants.

We support the following points:

1. Sound science must be used when evaluating (or reevaluating) pest control products and when establishing laws and regulations for their use.

2. Research must continue to assist the agricultural industry in finding environmentally friendly, affordable and effective pest control products.

3. Some pests (i.e., the Gypsy moth, Mediterranean and Mexican fruit flies, and the Glassy Winged Sharp Shooter) must be eradicated, not merely controlled.

4. Safety training must be available for pest control product handlers.

5. Continuing education and licensing is required for individuals who recommend and apply pest control products.

6. A proactive effort to eliminate the threat of foreign pests by increasing our inspection of foreign grown products.