Board approves limited emergency pesticide use on melons, peppers to combat sweet potato whitefly

The Imperial County Board of Supervisors approved a proclamation on Jan. 7 allowing short-term emergency use of a neonic-family pesticide at planting on certain non-blooming crops to protect melons and peppers from sweet potato whitefly.

Agricultural Commissioner Jolene Desert told the board the emergency use is narrowly targeted to plantings without bloom and is intended to provide several weeks' protection from piercing-sucking insects. She said the request had backing from local scientists, managed beekeepers and growers.

Supervisor Ryan Kelly voiced support and asked staff to coordinate with Environmental Health on another insect issue at the Salton Sea (boatman bug) that can create local nuisance and potential health concerns.

The motion to adopt the proclamation carried 5-0. Commissioners said they would use application methods, rate restrictions and timing to protect pollinators and would coordinate communications with stakeholders and environmental health.