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Illegal pesticides still being imported, sold
The importation and selling of foreign and/or misbranded pesticides and pesticide devices is illegal, yet is still happening in the Commonwealth.
Products that may be imported or sold in the CNMI are legal products that are registered with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and are properly labeled in the English language.
The Bureau of Environment and Coastal Quality said that all pesticides must be labeled with the name of the pesticide in bold letters, restricted use designation, description of which pests are controlled, chemical name of pesticide, active ingredients and percentages, inert ingredients, EPA registration number, patent numbers, directions for proper use and appropriate signal words such as caution, warning, or danger poison. Misbranded pesticides also refer to products that bear any statement, design, or graphic representation that is false or misleading.
A pesticide is any substance or mixture of substances intended for preventing, destroying, repelling or mitigating any pest. Many household products are pesticides and can include kitchen, laundry, and bath disinfectants and sanitizers. Products that kill mold and mildew are also considered pesticides.
The BECQ Pesticide Management branch is charged with the responsibility to regulate the importation, sale, and distribution of pesticides, legal or illegal, to ensure public health and a clean and healthy environment. BECQ staff regularly inspects business establishments for any misbranded products. Should misbranded items be found, all misbranded pesticides will be confiscated and penalties may be assessed.
The CNMI Pesticide Regulations are available to any interested party. Call or visit the BECQ Pesticide Management branch at 664-8522, located along Chalan Pale Arnold at the Gualo Rai Center or visit the BECQ website at www.deq.gov.mp. Office hours are Monday through Friday, 7:30am to 4:30pm. (BECQ)
