To The Editor:The Newtown Bee an article appeared "Pesticides Harm Threatened Salmon, Whales." That same week a different article appeared in a Beyond Pesticides publication, "Tell EPA to Ban Three Pesticides That Threaten Endangered Species," the very same three pesticides that were referenced in the Bee article, and, it turns out that all three of these pesticides are highly toxic to bees, so necessary for agricultural success and more importantly for maintenance of whole ecosystems.Bee article reminds us that many of the pesticides we use in our yards end up in a waterway and eventually make their way to Long Island Sound, impacting many life forms along the way. Add to that risks to human health and we begin to understand that our government's role in protecting personal and environmental health is something we can no longer take for granted. Being aware of the facts, modifying our own practices, and letting government officials know of our concerns would be a good place to start.

In the January 5, 2018, issue of

One has to take pause when in one week we are reminded that we are poisoning so many life forms, including those that are already on the brink of extinction.

The three pesticides cited, chlorpyrifos, diazinon, and malathion, are all potent organophosphate chemicals having neurotoxic effects. These compounds are highly toxic to mammals, fish, and aquatic invertebrates. They are used widely in agriculture, as well as on forested lands, and even in mosquito spraying.

Of the three, chlorpyrifos is probably the most concerning because of 1) its widespread agricultural use (food crops including apples, oranges, broccoli, strawberries, corn, wheat, and citrus, and 2) its serious human health effects particularly for children, being associated with neurodevelopmental harm to children's brains.

Action to ban or otherwise limit these pesticides has been tied up with court orders and the apparent reluctance of the federal Environmental Protection Agency to take action.

While we wait for government protection, what can we do as individuals do to protect ourselves? Certainly, and especially if you have children, buying organic fruits and vegetables makes a lot of sense. Do not buy or use any of the many insecticidal products containing malathion. Although diazinon is no longer available to homeowners, old products should be disposed of appropriately on Hazardous Waste Day. And if you are a letter writer, let EPA know that you do not find this situation acceptable.

The

Mary Gaudet-Wilson

Protect Our Pollinators

12 Whippoorwill Hill Road, Newtown         January 29, 2018