Pesticides Forum focuses on a wide range of important pesticide issues
M2 PRESSWIRE
Thu 31 May 2007

Two reports published today confirm that farmers and growers are doing
much to reduce impacts on the environment from the use of pesticides
although it is disappointing that levels of pesticides found in water
increased in 2005.

Commenting on the publication of the Pesticide Forum's '2006 Annual
Report' and the '2006 Report of Indicators reflecting the impacts of
pesticides use' James Clarke, the new Chairman of the Forum said:

"The Pesticides Forum continues to play a key role in advising
Government on new important initiatives such as the UK Pesticides
Strategy or responding to developments such as the consultation on the
EU's Thematic Strategy for Pesticides."

The key findings from the 'Indicators' report were that 2005 saw lower
sales of pesticides than in recent years and increased participation
by pesticide users and advisors in voluntary activities. Despite this
levels of pesticides being found in water increased in 2005 compared
to recent years. James Clarke said that "our understanding of these
matters does not lead us to believe that 2005 was a problem year in
relation to practices adopted by users of pesticides. This highlights
just how much we need to know to fully understand what is happening.

The Forum will continue to work with member organisations to better
understand the reasons for this increase and to develop effective
solutions."

Following his attendance at the Forum's October meeting to mark its
10th anniversary, Jeff Rooker - the Minister with responsibility for
pesticides - added his own personal thanks to all those organisations
involved in the Forum:

"There is no doubt that it is through the efforts of all the
organisations involved that the Forum has achieved so much in its 10
years. I look forward to a continuing close working relationship with
the Forum and its member organisations."

Notes for Editors

1. The Pesticides Forum was set up by Ministers in 1996 to: bring
together the views of those concerned with the use and effects of
pesticides; identify their common interests; assist in the effective
dissemination of best practice, advances in technology, and research
and development results; and advise Government on the development,
promotion and implementation of its policy relating to the responsible
use of pesticides.

2. The 2006 'Pesticides Forum Annual Report' and the 'Report of
indicators reflecting the impacts of pesticide use' are available on
the Forum's website : http://www.pesticides.gov.uk/pesticides_forum.asp?id=1606
and the link for the Indicators Report: http://www.pesticides.gov.uk/pesticides_forum.asp?id=1879
or can be obtained from:

Pesticides Forum Secretariat Room 317 Mallard House Kings Pool 3
Peasholme Green York, YO1 7PX Telephone: 01904 455860 E-mail:
Pesticidesforum@psd.defra. gsi.gov.uk

http://www.defra.gov.uk

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