EPA issues FWP for registration review of imidacloprid

EPA has issued a Final Work Plan (FWP) for the registration review of imidacloprid. A neonicotinoid insecticide, imidacloprid（see suppliers on agropages） is highly toxic to honeybees on an acute exposure basis; however, potential chronic effects on honeybee colonies are uncertain. As part of the registration review process, EPA is requiring field-based data on imidacloprid to better understand its potential impact on pollinators. The Agency also will be working with Federal and State officials, as well as the international community and other stakeholders, to develop data and help us understand the potential impact of the neonicotinoid insecticides on pollinators.

Imidacloprid is used on food crops, ornamentals, turf, seed treatments, domestic pets, and structural pests. During the public comment period on the Agency's Imidacloprid Summary Document and Preliminary Work Plan (PWP), issued in December 2008, EPA received over 12,000 comments voicing concern over imidacloprid's potential effects on pollinators. The comments highlighted points to be considered during registration review, but did not change the timeline or data requirements set forth in the PWP. The Agency has addressed the comments in three separate Responses to Comments memos.