Tyrone Hayes

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced today launching a new evaluation of the human health effects of the pesticide atrazine. According to an agency press release, "EPA will evaluate the pesticide’s potential cancer and non-cancer effects on humans," including "the most recent studies on atrazine and its potential association with birth defects, low birth weight, and premature births." Based on the findings, EPA says it will decide whether to keep the old standards or formulate new ones to better protect public health.

Atrazine --an endocrine disruptor sold as Lariat, Bicep and Shotgun-- is one of the most widely used agricultural pesticides in the U.S. The pesticide is now so commonly found in groundwater, lakes and rivers that technicians use its absence as a red flag that a water test has been botched.

Dr. Tyrone Hays, atrazine expert, says he's pleased by EPA's action. "I was very happy to see this response from the EPA. It is a clear indication that the new administration will finally start to emphasize environmental health, public health, and good science."