What is a special rule pesticide?

A special rule pesticide is classified as one that poses significant environmental or health risks, and its use is subject to additional regulations or restrictions to mitigate these risks. These pesticides may have been identified through studies or assessments that demonstrate their potential to cause harm to non-target organisms, including humans, wildlife, and beneficial insects, as well as the surrounding ecosystem.

This categorization is crucial as it helps ensure that applicators are aware of the potential hazards associated with these chemicals and the necessity of employing them with caution. This can involve following stricter application guidelines, implementing specific safety protocols, and in some cases, obtaining special permissions before application. By focusing on the risks associated with these pesticides, regulators aim to protect public health and environmental integrity, making it vital for practitioners to understand and comply with the special rules that govern their use.