How Free Are USDA Scientists To Speak Their Mind?
Jonathan Lundgren's research pointed out problems with popular pesticides. He says that message — and the messenger — are unwelcome at the USDA's Agricultural Research Service.
pesticides
In An Unusual Move, The EPA Tries To Pull A Pesticide From Market
The pesticide got "conditional" approval eight years ago, but the EPA now says it could poison aquatic life. The move is raising hope among activists who want tighter regulation of pesticides.
Did A Pesticide Cause Microcephaly In Brazil? Unlikely, Say Experts
A report from doctors in Argentina raises the possibility that a mosquito pesticide could be responsible for an increase in microcephaly in Brazil. But many top scientists strongly disagree.
Thanksgiving Buzz: What Would Pilgrims Say About The Plight Of Bees?
When you sit down for your holiday dinner, you may want to give thanks to bees and other pollinators. Their health is tied to your food. What's behind the bee declines? Watch our video investigation.
Pesticide Drift Threatens Organic Farms
Farmers use millions of pounds of pesticides each year to protect crops from weeds and insects. When those chemicals drift to neighboring property, they can ruin crops on organic farms.
Marijuana Growers Hit A Snag: Toxic Pesticides
Attempts to regulate chemicals in marijuana production often hit another problem: The plant's wide range of uses sets it apart from many traditional food crops.
Concern Grows Over Unregulated Pesticide Use Among Marijuana Growers
Regulators in the 23 states where medical or recreational marijuana is allowed are having a tough time making sure pot buyers don't ingest harmful pesticides.
Mighty Farming Microbes: Companies Harness Bacteria To Give Crops A Boost
Will agricultural chemical dealers start selling microbes? Some big pesticide companies are investing in efforts to turn soil bacteria into tools that farmers can use to grow more food.
Buzz Over Bee Health: New Pesticide Studies Rev Up Controversy
Two new studies published in the journal Nature point to a connection between a class of insecticides known as neonicotinoids and a decline in bee health. What's bad for bees is bad for crops, too.
A Top Weedkiller Could Cause Cancer. Should We Be Scared?
A respected scientific group says that glyphosate, also known as Roundup, is "probably carcinogenic to humans." Yet the actual risks — which are mainly to farmers, not consumers — remain uncertain.