New Zealand EPA to extend the use of Sygenta’s insecticide Ampligo

The New Zealand Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) is calling for submissions on an application from Sygenta Crop Protection Limited to extend the use of the insecticide Ampligo from a maximum of three applications per season to a maximum of four applications per season, which will allow it to be used on a broader range of crops.The submissions have been opened until 23 February 2016.

Ampligo is a mixture of a suspension concentrate and capsule suspension containing the active ingredients lambda-cyhalothrin (50 g ai/L) and chlorantraniliprole (100 g ai/L).

The EPA has determined that there are grounds for reassessment of Ampligo, as allowing application of the substance at a rate that exceeds the currently permitted rate represents a significant change in use pattern of the substance. The current approval for Ampligo is for use to control insect pests with a maximum of three applications per season, at 14–21 day intervals. This application is for a maximum of four ground-based applications per season, with a minimum of 14 days between applications.

The applicant has proposed this change so the product can be used on other crops, including to control potato tuber moths on potatoes. The applicant states that this product is intended to replace some higher risk organophosphates, will reduce the need for tank mixing and will reduce operator exposure.