Dec 14, 2021

Classifying methomyl as a restricted use pesticide proposed by MDARD

The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) is proposing classifying all formulations of the insecticide methomyl as a restricted use pesticide.

This recommendation was made due to widespread misuse of the product, which is highly toxic to humans and other mammals. Public comments on the proposal are due by Friday, Jan. 14, 2022.

“MDARD has investigated dozens of incidents involving the misuse of methomyl-based fly bait products to kill non-target species, including both nuisance and companion animals,” Mike Philip, MDARD’s Pesticide and Plant Pest Management Division Director, said in a news release. “Using pesticides in any way other than stated on the label is illegal. The label is the law.”

Currently, only one product registered in Michigan will be impacted by this proposed order, a fly bait product sold under the brand name Golden Malrin. Golden Malrin’s intended use is fly control in agricultural settings. There are several other highly effective fly baits available in Michigan that do not contain methomyl, are not classified as restricted use, and are less acutely toxic to mammals. These products include:

• EverGreen Pyrethrum Dust
• Maxforce Granular Fly Bait
• Revenge Dust-on Fly, Lice & Tick Control
• StarBar Cyanarox Insecticidal Bait
• StarBar Quikstrike Fly Bait
• Zyrox Fly Granular Bait

Under the proposed change, businesses selling methomyl must hold a restricted use pesticide dealer license. In addition, anyone who purchases the chemical must be a certified pesticide applicator.

“Restricting the use of methomyl-based fly baits like Golden Malrin will ensure only certified pesticide applicators will have access to this chemical,” added Philip. “The stronger regulatory controls around restricted use pesticides will also make it easier for MDARD to respond to any future allegations of misuse.”

People interested in providing feedback can view the draft order at Michigan.gov/RUP and submit comments via email to [email protected]. The deadline for comments is Jan. 14, 2022.