EPA Enforces Unprecedented Emergency Ban on Fetus-Damaging Pesticide

Officials took the rare step because the pesticide DCPA, or Dacthal, could cause irreversible damage to fetuses, including impaired brain development.

WASHINGTON — For the first time in nearly four decades, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has exercised its emergency powers to halt the sale of DCPA, a weed-killing pesticide known to harm unborn babies.

The decision comes after evidence revealed that DCPA causes irreversible fetal damage, such as impaired brain development and low birthweight. The EPA struggled to obtain critical health data from the pesticide’s manufacturer on time, ultimately deciding that continued sale posed an unacceptable risk.

“In this case, pregnant women who may never know they were exposed could give birth to babies that experience irreversible lifelong health problems,” said Michal Freedhoff, assistant administrator for EPA’s Office of Chemical Safety and Pollution Prevention.

Approximately 84,000 pounds of DCPA were used on crops like broccoli and cabbage annually between 2018 and 2020, making the decision impactful for the agricultural sector.

In 2023, the EPA reassessed the pesticide’s risks and found it hazardous, even with personal protective equipment. Although manufacturers advised avoidance of treated fields for 12 hours, danger levels could persist for over 25 days, according to the agency.

AMVAC Chemical Corp., the pesticide’s manufacturer, did not respond to requests for comment. Earlier this year, the company proposed new safety protocols, such as extended waiting periods before re-entering treated fields, but the EPA deemed these measures insufficient.

Federal officials emphasized that the emergency order was critical, as the standard review process would endanger public health by taking too long. The EPA’s urgent action underscores the severity of the threat posed by DCPA.