What are the potential effects of aerial pesticide spraying for the Light Brown Apple Moth on humans, wildlife, and pets? Is the spray proven to be effective at stopping the spread of the moth? Is the moth a proven threat to agriculture in Marin County?  What are the long-term ecological impacts of 3-10 years of monthly spraying on the entire ecosystem?   

To date, none of these questions have been adequately answered. EAC opposes aerial spraying for the Light Brown Apple Moth, as there are too many unaddressed questions and concerns about the effectiveness and potential harm caused by the chemical spraying. The State should be required to do a California Environmental Quality Act assessment in the form of an Environmental Impact Report and make its case based upon the best scientific evidence.

If you oppose aerial pesticide spraying for the Light Brown Apple Moth, please attend the Mom’s March to Stop the Spray this Saturday May 10 at 9:30 a.m. at the Corte Madera Town Center (Take US – 101 and exit Tamalpais Drive and follow the signs to the march). For more information go to: http://www.stopthespray.org/

Decisions that have the potential to inflict serious harm to people and wildlife must be based on rigorous scientific study and analysis. In the meantime, we must practice the precautionary principle, erring on the side of the protection for our citizens and the natural world.  It would be irresponsible to do otherwise.

Frederick Smith

Executive Director

Environmental Action Committee of West Marin