Study launches in Stanislaus County to measure pesticide concentrations in air
The California Department of Pesticides Regulation (DPR) is launching a seasonal study in Stanislaus County, following advocacy efforts for pesticide reform and improved monitoring at county and state levels.
Three new air monitors have been deployed in the Monterey Park Tract, Grayson and Hughson for the duration of the study period. Previously, the closest monitoring stations were in Ripon and Delhi.
This collaborative effort with Stanislaus County is the first multi-community seasonal study undertaken by the DPR team.
Stanislaus ranks among the top 10 counties in California for pesticide usage, with particularly high pesticide usage between 2019 and 2021, the last year for which data is available.
Sampling began at the end of January and will continue until May 10.
DPR will conduct a 15-week study from February to May, focusing on sampling for chloropicrin, 1,3-Dichloropropene and methyl isothiocyanate — substances commonly used for pre-planting almond and vineyard crops. During this period, when these pesticides are most heavily utilized, air concentrations will be measured and compared to human health screening levels.
The results of the study will be shared with the public through a report and presentations. DPR’s actions are guided in part by the Toxic Air Contaminant Act of 1983, which mandates the listing, evaluation and control of chemicals, including pesticides, that may pose health hazards or contribute to serious illnesses or fatalities.
Community information sessions were conducted in each of the areas slated for testing.
Residents at a meeting Tuesday in the Monterey Park Tract west of Turlock expressed concern about pesticide exposure and health concerns, especially for kids who play outside in the area.
DPR staff said they are committed to transparency and community involvement. They will be providing an overview of their results to the community once they have collected and analyzed all the data.
Grayson resident John Mataka expressed relief to learn that results would be provided following the study. He mentioned previous instances when community studies didn’t have any follow-up, leaving residents in the dark.
Aniela Burant, senior environmental scientist at DPR, said results and data of the study should be finalized by fall and the community will hear back next summer. “We don’t want to leave people hanging,” she said.
What are some pesticide exposure risks?
Exposure to pesticides carries various risks, including irritation to the eyes, nose, skin and throat, which may cause headaches, vomiting or abdominal pain. Additionally, exposure can lead to irritation of the upper respiratory tract, mucous membranes and gastrointestinal tract.
Burant emphasized the importance of minimizing exposure to pesticides as much as possible.
“Let’s just say I wouldn’t want to be exposed to them,” Burant said.
“But we are,” said Daniel Simpson, a resident at the meeting at Monterey Park Tract.
Linda Pinfold, the Stanislaus County agricultural commissioner, urged individuals to contact her office to report any instances of pesticide exposure. Reports can be made anonymously. In the case of a health emergency, it is advised to call 911.
Bianca Lopez, founder of Valley Improvement Projects (VIP), stressed the significance of reporting pesticide exposure incidents to ensure accurate data collection.
Lopez further emphasized the importance of informing medical professionals if one suspects exposure to pesticides, because physicians and other licensed healthcare providers are mandated by law to report to local public health officers any known or suspected cases of pesticide-related illness or injury.
Sometimes, doctors dismiss pesticide exposure symptoms as allergies, so it’s important for individuals to communicate if they believe they’ve been exposed, she said.
Moreover, Lopez mentioned that VIP can submit reports to the County Agricultural Commissioner’s Office on behalf of those who may feel uncomfortable doing so themselves.
A public meeting like the one in the Monterey Park Tract will be held Thursday, Feb. 29, at 6 p.m. at Hughson High School’s Reeder Hall, 7419 E. Whitmore Ave.
The Stanislaus County agricultural commissioner can be reached at agcom50@stancounty.com or 209-525-4730.
