The National Barley Growers Association submitted comments to the EPA regarding the recently released Draft Insecticide Strategy. The proposed EPA Insecticide Strategy shares many similarities with the finalized Herbicide Strategy released last month. This Strategy assigns point values to pesticides and requires farmers to obtain points through either relief points or mitigation points. Relief points are determined based on a map designed by the EPA that distinguishes levels of runoff risk. Additionally, farmers can earn mitigation points by implementing certain measures, such as planting cover crops, installing barriers, or attending training sessions.

In our comments, the NBGA emphasized the importance of incorporating low-cost mitigation measures for farmers and allowing flexibility for quick responses to pest threats. The association also expressed concerns about the need for clear and consistent labeling requirements, as well as adaptive guidelines that can evolve with new technologies. Furthermore, the NBGA urged the EPA to continue refining the strategies to simplify requirements and enhance clarity.

The EPA is currently working to finalize the Insecticide Strategy and recently released the finalized Herbicide Strategy. The NBGA also signed on to comments from other organizations addressing the Insecticide Strategy. The NBGA's comments to the EPA can be found below.

The full comments can be read here

EPA Finalizes Plan to Protect Vulnerable Species 

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has launched its Vulnerable Species Action Plan (VSAP) as part of its commitments under the Endangered Species Act. This plan builds on the earlier Vulnerable Species Pilot and focuses on identifying particularly at-risk species while implementing measures to reduce pesticide-related harm, even before formal assessments are conducted.

The VSAP has identified 27 vulnerable species, which include various plants and animals, and utilizes a structured three-step approach. This framework evaluates potential pesticide impacts, outlines appropriate mitigation strategies, and specifies where these measures will apply. Mitigations will be implemented only in specific geographic areas known as Pesticide Use Limitation Areas (PULAs). The EPA is currently working on refining the species maps for these areas and will delay the implementation of the VSAP in registration review until the maps are completed, which is expected to occur later in 2024. The plan aims to adapt and include additional species over time through collaboration with wildlife agencies and addresses multiple exposure routes to ensure thorough protection. The finalized VSAP and supporting documents are available for public access and review.

The full plan can be read here

NBGA Endorses Ag Investment for America Tax Credit Proposal

The NBGA Board of Directors moved to support the Ag Investment for America proposal, which is a diverse coalition of domestic growers and manufacturers advocating for tax policies that promote demand for American-made products through tax policies.

Following the global supply chain disruptions caused by the pandemic and ongoing trade tensions with China, there is a heightened focus on ensuring that agricultural products are sourced domestically. To support American growers and encourage businesses to prioritize domestic sourcing, the coalition proposes establishing a tax credit for companies that source agricultural commodities produced in the U.S. This initiative aims to strengthen markets for growers, promote investment in domestic manufacturing, and enhance the security of the U.S. food supply chain.