Farm Bureau Supports Use of Atrazine
Cook County Farm Bureau® sent the following letter to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA):
Organized in 1920, Cook County Farm Bureau® is dedicated to bridging the gap between farmers and urban consumers. Through education programs targeting youth and their parents and programs designed to connect farmers with potential consumers, Farm Bureau members are actively engaging in conversations about food and the shared values between farmers and consumers.
We recognize that Illinois crop farmers rely on atrazine to grow the food, fuel, and fiber that powers the American economy.
The use of this herbicide has several beneficial outcomes in crop production. It is an important tool for weed mitigation in several crops. Its use with crops, such as corn, enables added environmental benefits for farmers seeking to utilize conservation tillage and no-till practices that conserve soil, preserve nutrients, improve water quality, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Without atrazine, many farmers would not be able to utilize these methods that result in positive environmental outcomes.
We encourage the U.S. EPA to make its determinations about the potential effects of atrazine on threatened or endangered species using a process that is transparent and based on the best available science. The future availability of atrazine is critical to the success of my farm and America’s agriculture industry.
Members are encouraged to contact Bona Heinsohn via email at [email protected] or 708-354-3276 with any questions or concerns.