Issue 14, August 22, 2011

Update on Imprelis Herbicide

This summer, we have witnessed widespread damage to pine and spruce trees caused by the newly registered Imprelis herbicide (aminocyclopyraclor) by DuPont. For background information, please see Stephanie Porter's article in the Home, Yard, and Garden Newsletter.

On August 4th, DuPont voluntarily issued a suspension of sale. They are still investigating the issue and have yet to determine exactly what went wrong. They have sent guidance letters to turf management professionals as well as turf product distributors. DuPont also has created a web site and hotline (866-796-4783) for information about returns, refunds, and resolutions. They ask homeowners specifically to contact them.

I was told recently that landscape companies are paying for damages up front and are being reimbursed from DuPont. This has been quite a blow to the smaller companies.

Imprelis has composting restrictions on the label. Trees that have died or have been damaged by Imprelis should be properly disposed of. The recommendation is that they NOT be chipped or placed back into the landscape.

It is a shame that this has happened as Imprelis is highly effective on ground ivy (creeping Charlie). I think it will eventually return to the market place, but only time will tell. They say time heals all wounds, but the wound of thousands of dead trees from Minnesota to New Jersey is a fairly big wound to heal. (Michelle Wiesbrook)

Omission: On August 11, 2011 the EPA issued a Stop Sale, Use or Removal Order to DuPont for potential violations of FIFRA including inadequate warnings and use directions on the Imprelis product label. Click here for more information.

Author:
Michelle Wiesbrook

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