Court: EPA Broke Endangered Species Law In Approving 59 Pesticides

"U.S. EPA violated the Endangered Species Act when it issued 59 pesticide registrations between 2007 and 2012, a federal court has found.

The U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California agreed with beekeepers, wildlife groups and food safety advocates that EPA unlawfully failed to consult with wildlife agencies on the impacts of the pesticides.

Senior Judge Maxine Chesney, a Clinton appointee, yesterday issued the opinion for the court.

At issue are neonicotinoid-containing pesticides used for agricultural, landscaping and ornamental purposes. Studies have linked neonicotinoids to bee harm, though EPA earlier this year issued a preliminary risk assessment finding compounds do not pose significant risks to bee colonies.

The Center for Food Safety, Beyond Pesticides, the Sierra Club and the Center for Environmental Health — which have all raised concerns about the impacts on neonicotinoids on bees — in 2013 joined individual beekeepers in bringing the lawsuit against EPA."

Amanda Reilly reports for E&E News PM May 9, 2017.