Notice of Comment Period on Draft Water Quality BMPs for Agricultural Use of Clothianidin and Imidacloprid

The Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) is seeking public comment on draft water quality best management practices (BMPs) for agricultural use of two neonicotinoid insecticides, clothianidin and imidacloprid. The BMPs were developed by the MDA in consultation with the University of Minnesota Extension and others after the Commissioner of the MDA designated the neonicotinoid insecticides clothianidin and imidacloprid as “surface water pesticides of concern.” These BMPs detail the best approaches and applications to consider when using clothianidin and imidacloprid to protect surface waters. You can find the clothianidin and imidacloprid draft BMPs on the MDA’s website. Notice for public comment was published on November 21, 2022, and can be viewed at Minnesota State Register website.

The MDA will accept comments through January 19, 2023. Please feel free to share this announcement with other interested parties.

Following the 60-day comment period, the MDA will consider revisions to the BMPs based on comments received. A notice announcing the availability of the final BMPs will be published in the State Register.

Comments can be submitted by email at theresa.cira@state.mn.us or by letter at the following address:

Theresa Cira
Pesticide and Fertilizer Management Division
Minnesota Department of Agriculture
625 Robert Street North, Saint Paul, MN, 55155

Phone: 651-201-6237