Understanding the EPA’s Actions on Dacthal DCPA

Pesticides play a vital role in agricultural productivity. However, some of them  come with significant health and environmental risks, and sometimes these risks are not always adequately studied or disclosed by the chemical manufacturer. Recently, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) took urgent steps regarding a chemical called Dacthal (DCPA). The chemical has been linked to potential health concerns in children whose mothers were exposed to Dacthal during pregnancy. 

What is Dacthal (DCPA)?

Dacthal, also known as DCPA, is a pesticide widely used to control weeds on crops like onions, brassicas (cabbages, broccoli, etc.), and non-agricultural sites such as golf courses and parks. Despite its widespread use, recent findings have raised concerns about its safety, prompting federal action to restrict its use.

EPA’s Emergency Order to Suspend Dacthal Usage

On August 7, 2024, the EPA issued an emergency order suspending all pesticide products containing Dacthal due to serious health risks. This decision came after mounting evidence that the chemical poses risks to human health and, particularly, pregnant women. You can read the full EPA emergency order here.

The EPA took action following the detection of Dacthal breakdown products in groundwater and drinking water supplies in several regions across the United States. The agency determined that these contamination levels could pose significant health risks. This includes long-term effects on human health, which spurred the need for immediate intervention.

Health Risks Linked to Dacthal

The primary concern surrounding the chemical is its potential to persist in the environment for a long time (25 days or more) following application. When the product is applied to crops or lawns, it can become airborne, leech into the ground, and remain on crops, which increases the chance of significant long-lasting human exposure. In pregnant women, the chemical then interacts with fetal thyroid hormone levels, which increases the risk of birth injuries and defects. 

Long-term exposure to Dacthal and its chemical byproducts have been linked to several health risks, including:

Cancer risk: Certain studies have suggest that exposure to Dacthal may increase the risk of developing cancer over time.

Endocrine disruption: The chemical can interfere with hormone systems in both humans and wildlife, potentially leading to reproductive and developmental problems.

Water contamination: One of the most pressing concerns is the contamination of public water supplies, which can affect large populations and ecosystems.

In response to these risks, the EPA issued its emergency press release, outlining the immediate steps to prevent further Dacthal use and mitigate contamination.

Monitoring and Legal Action Between the EPA and AMVAC Chemical

The EPA’s decision to halt the use of Dacthal is part of an ongoing monitoring and legal back-and-forth with AMVAC Chemical Corporation, the manufacturer of Dacthal. Over the years, the EPA has been working to review the safety data on Dacthal, prompting extensive discussions with AMVAC regarding the risks and necessary regulatory steps.

You can view the EPA’s review docket to understand the full scope of the agency’s investigations and regulatory actions.

The situation surrounding Dacthal is a reminder of the challenges in balancing agricultural needs with public health and safety. The EPA has been actively monitoring water sources and coordinating with state agencies to assess the extent of contamination and implement necessary safeguards.

DCPA Usage Across the U.S.

DCPA has been widely used across the United States for decades. Especially in agriculture-heavy states. To see how DCPA applies across the country, you can view the DCPA usage map.

This map shows the regions where there is extensive usage of DCPA. It is a helpful tool for understanding where contamination risks may be higher.

Looking Ahead

The EPA will continue its efforts to assess and mitigate the risks posed by Dacthal and other potentially harmful pesticides. The situation is ongoing. Further actions may be taken as new data becomes available. 

For the latest updates and information on the EPA’s actions, visit the EPA’s official page on pesticides 

KBA’s Fight Against Dacthal

KBA Attorneys is continuing to investigate Dacthal and are representing women who were exposed to Dacthal during pregnancy and later had a child born with birth injuries or defects.  If this applies to you or a loved one, contact us for a free consultation.

We want to help you stay informed. By understanding the risks associated with chemicals like Dacthal, you can better protect your health and the environment. We will keep an eye on further developments.