News and Information about Pesticides

Some chemicals commonly used on lawns and gardens have been associated with birth defects, mutations, adverse reproductive effects, and cancer in laboratory animals. Children, infants, and fetuses may be especially vulnerable to the health effects of pesticides before the age of five, when their cells are normally reproducing most rapidly.

In addition to their health effects, there are ecological effects to their use as well. Most lawn-care chemicals have the potential to contaminate underlying groundwater.

Facts on Pesticides from the EPA

Pyrethroid Pesticides Linked to Mortality and Heart Disease Risks in New Study

Connecticut’s Lawn Care Pesticide Ban: Information for Schools and Day Care Centers

Industry Challenges Landmark Maryland Ordinance Restricting Lawn-Care Pesticides

Maryland is one of seven states that has not explicitly taken away (or preempted) local authority to restrict pesticides more stringently than the state.

EPA Holds Public Meetings as Scientists Urge Caution on Monsanto's Round Up Weed Killer

Study Suggests Multiple Types of Pesticides Combined to Kill Bees