Source: National Corn Growers Association news release
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Without key pesticides corn growers could see a significant reduction in production and ability to continue conservation tillage and cover cropping practices, which are critical for reducing soil erosion, improving water quality and enhancing soil health, according to one of the nation’s top farmer advocates.
The comment, made by Illinois farmer and National Corn Growers Association President Kenneth Hartman Jr. in a letter to Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., comes as the Make America Healthy Again Commission prepares to release policy recommendations to address childhood chronic disease this month.
“Pesticides are a vital component of all types of agricultural production systems (conventional and organic), and without these tools, yields would be compromised,” Hartman said. “For instance, corn yields could be reduced by up to 70% without pesticides to ward off weeds, above and below ground pests, and humidity-loving fungi. Losses of this magnitude would impact food availability and grocery prices, ultimately harming the health of Americans.”
The letter noted that farmers follow the labeling guidelines and instructions that accompany pesticides.
“Proper use of pesticides not only protects humans and the environment from potential exposures but also protects farm economics by preventing waste and unintended crop damage,” Hartman said. “In fact, by following label directions, farmers have been able to dramatically reduce the amount of herbicides used per acre over the past 20 years.”
In the letter, Hartman recommends the MAHA Commission:
Reinforce the robust, globally respected pesticide review process used by the Environmental Protection Agency.
Highlight the critical role of precision agriculture in pesticide application.
Support full congressional funding of EPA’s Office of Pesticide Programs at the Pesticide Registration Improvement Act 5 statutory level of $166 million.
The letter also suggested that USDA provide increased funding for independent agricultural-based research that addresses topics such as precision applications, pesticide resistance and integrated pest management.
The letter is the latest of many efforts by NCGA to ensure that the MAHA recommendations rely on the years of science and evaluations showing that pesticides can be used safely for their intended uses.
