Public grounds would phase out most synthetic herbicide use

People may not use or apply synthetic herbicides on public grounds. Public grounds include publicly owned parks, trails, lawns and sports fields open to the public; building interiors, parking lots and land not open to the public are excluded. The department may grant a waiver after an advisory committee recommendation if it finds an emergency or a serious invasive-species threat that organic methods could not address. Applicants must assess alternatives and seek the smallest amount of the least toxic effective herbicide; use must limit effects on nearby properties and not harm public health, safety or welfare. The restriction applies 18 months after the effective date for most public grounds, and 36 months after for golf courses and sports fields; the act takes effect in 60 days.

Commonwealth agencies and municipalities must post signs before applying pesticides. The requirement covers each Commonwealth agency and municipality applying pesticides. Signs must give the application date and a contact number for questions. Signs must be posted 48 hours before an application and stay up for 72 hours afterward.

The Department of Environmental Protection must develop an organic land management plan. The plan is for Commonwealth agencies and municipalities to use in managing outdoor areas. The plan is to guide agencies and municipalities in understanding, preventing and controlling actual and potential noxious weeds. It must cover soil testing and amendments, suitable plantings, organic care practices, physical and biological controls, treatment timing, and removal of pest habitats.

Agencies and municipalities must report pesticide use to the Department of Health and post the information online. The requirement applies to each Commonwealth agency and municipality and covers any kind of pesticide. Reports must include the pesticide used, amount, method and location, area treated, applicator and employer, and whether people were told about the application. Reporting and public posting begin six months after the effective date of the reporting subsection.