On Jan. 6, the EPA published their new changes to the chlorothalonil label, and due in part to the advocacy efforts of GCSAA and its members, the Registration Review Interim Decision (ID) was significantly different from the label changes that were proposed in 2023.
The preliminary proposal would have created significant challenges for superintendents to be able to continue to use chlorothalonil. During the open public comment period, the GCSAA government affairs team took the initiative to educate EPA on how chlorothalonil is used in golf course management and why its availability is important. GCSAA also worked collectively with university turfgrass scientists, so they could share their knowledge with the EPA as well. In addition, GCSAA educated its members to be able to weigh in on the proposed label changes. Nearly 150 superintendents submitted letters to the EPA along with the turfgrass scientists.
With this important advocacy, chlorothalonil can continue to be an important tool for golf superintendents. To see more details about the Registration Review Interim Decision, read the previous GCSAA blog post.
The same proactive advocacy effort held true regarding proposed label changes to thiophanate methyl, another important fungicide for golf course management. The Registration Review Interim Decision (ID) on thiophanate methyl was also published on Jan. 6.
“There was a real concern about the loss of these products for some members and ineffective use for others,” GCSAA Director of Government Affairs Chava McKeel said. “But with the changes made in the Interim Decision, it will allow continued responsible use of the products in tandem with best management practices.”
As part of the process, the EPA will next conduct its Endangered Species Act review of these active ingredients, and GCSAA will continue to be involved and keep members updated on the latest information.
Thank you to all the superintendents and industry scientists who helped keep chlorothalonil and thiophanate methyl a viable option for golf courses.