Pennsylvania approves use of EcoMIGHT organic herbicide

Pennsylvania has joined other U.S. communities dedicated to decreasing environmental toxins by approving the use of EcoMIGHT, a non-selective, non-toxic herbicide that kills weeds to the roots.

As concerns about conventional herbicides rise, both government entities and private businesses are seeking a viable alternative.

EcoMIGHT's W.O.W. is a naturally organic herbicide (containing natural soaps and salts) that has already been tested and embraced by dozens of municipalities and businesses around the country including certification by the Florida School Plant Management Association. Now, Pennsylvania entities will be able to share in the effective and non-toxic benefits of EcoMIGHT.

Balancing Effectiveness, Safety, and Affordability

The challenge when it comes to weed control is finding a solution that's effective, safe and affordable.

Golf courses are one of many businesses that constantly struggle with that balance. "Superintendents need to find that sweet spot between cost and efficacy," said Bradley Jacklin, a turf-grass expert who works with some of the top golf courses in the world.

David Shoaf of Joe Blair Garden Supply in Florida agrees with Jacklin and insisted on testing EcoMIGHT before selling it. "We will never sell anything we don't stand behind," Shoaf said. "EcoMIGHT is a cost-effective solution that brings my customers just as much value as glyphosate."

EcoMIGHT is safe for people, animals and the environment. According to the U.S. EPA, it is designated as minimum risk exempt, which means when used as directed, it "poses little to no risk to human health or the environment."

Municipalities Focus on Local Sustainability Goals

According to the constitution of Pennsylvania, the commonwealth's natural resources "are the common property of all the people, including generations yet to come." Governor Tom Wolf publicizes his goal of working to protect the state's air, water, and land through smarter energy policy and conservation.

Pennsylvania municipalities can now join others around the country in this mission including Plymouth, MA. Last year, they voluntarily stopped using glyphosate-based herbicides. According to Robert Birkenhead Jr., highway foreman for Plymouth, the town began using EcoMIGHT as "an alternative that was safe for our employees and friendly to the whole community."

Several Florida cities have banned using herbicides containing glyphosate on public lands. However, both the cities of Sebastian and Vero Beach temporarily lifted their bans to allow the testing of EcoMIGHT.

According to an article in TCPalm, Monte Falls, city manager in Vero Beach reported that results were positive with EcoMIGHT keeping weeds away after six weeks. "We are trying anything we can to keep chemicals out of the natural environment," Falls said.