Pesticide Use Reporting Protects Kids' Health

Toxic pesticides are widely used throughout Oregon, not just on farms and forests, but in schools, parks, roadsides, hospitals and shopping centers.

These chemicals are linked to serious health effects, including cancer, birth defects, and nervous system disorders.  Children are at the greatest risk.  In 2003, there were 153 cases of pesticide poisonings reported in Oregon.

A Collaborative Solution

In 1999, the Oregon Environmental Council worked together with a large group of stakeholders, including farmers, health professionals and drinking water providers, to come up with a solution.

The solution is to gather data on when, where and how these chemicals are used in Oregon. The Legislature voted overwhelmingly to turn this solution into law: Oregon's Pesticide Use Reporting System.

After a lengthy delay, we're delighted that pesticide use reporting will finally begin in 2006 and that the first data will become available in 2007.  Tracking pesticide use is critical for protecting human health and making informed decisions about how these chemicals affect the health of Oregonians, especially children.