Attendees:

Environmental fate and Effects Division (EFED)

Biological and Economic Analysis Division (BEAD)

Special Review and Reregistration Division (SRRD)

Health and Effects Division (HED)

Baker Petrolite

Technology Sci. Group

Lewis and Harrison 

Columbia Basin Project Rep.

 

Acrolein Meeting Between Baker Petrolite and EPA

On March 12, 2008, personnel from the Agency (SRRD, HED, BEAD and EFED)
met with Baker Petrolite, the technical registrant for acrolein.  The
meeting was requested by the company.  Acrolein is an aquatic herbicide
used to control various weed species in irrigation conveyance systems,
primarily in the West, where off-farm sources for irrigation water are
well developed and important to agriculture.  There were several topics
of discussions that included the following: functionality of irrigation
systems, importance of use, feasibility of alternatives, ecological and
human health risk issues as well as mitigation proposals to minimize
potential exposure.

Hugh McEachen, who represents the South Columbia River Basin Project in
Washington state, discussed use of acrolein, alternatives and
Washington's experience with NPDES permitting.  There are three separate
irrigation districts that regulate the Columbia River Basin Project with
over 10,000 miles of water infrastructure.  The construction of the
canal system first began in the early 1940’s into the early 1960’s. 
The artificial canal system offers several functions which include:
creation of hydroelectric power, flood control, recreational purposes
and wildlife habitat.  This system was designed to be weed free, but
Sago pond weed is a main problem as is algae.  In order to keep the
canal system free of obstruction and remain a viable distribution source
for water, acrolein is used.  Although other chemicals are used for weed
control within the canals, most products are not labeled for use in
canals while irrigation is in progress.  Acrolein provides the most
effective means for this purpose.  Due to the acute toxicity of the
chemical, particular emphasis was placed on the proper training of
applicators of acrolein in order to stress safety when applying the
chemical in an attempt to prevent potential exposure.

EPA personnel let Baker know that the docket for the second phase of
public comments (Phase 5) will be opening near the end of March and that
the minutes from this meeting would be docketed as part of that public
process.

