In South Carolina, a pesticide product registered by EPA is not legal for use until it is also registered by which authority?

• A. DPR
• B. EPA
• C. FIFRA
• D. SCDA

Answer: (A)

The correct answer is that a pesticide product registered by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) must also be registered by the South Carolina Department of Agriculture (SCDA) in order to be legal for use in the state. While the EPA provides federal registration and assesses the safety and efficacy of pesticide products, each state has its own regulatory authority to oversee the use of these products within its borders to ensure compliance with local laws and regulations.

The registration by the SCDA is crucial because it ensures that the pesticide is appropriate for the specific agricultural and environmental conditions in South Carolina. It helps to consider local factors such as climate, soil types, and pest populations unique to the state. Additionally, registration by the SCDA may involve evaluating labeling requirements and any additional state restrictions that may apply to certain uses of the pesticide.

This process is in line with the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA), which allows states to impose their own regulations for pesticide use as long as they do not conflict with federal laws. Thus, while the EPA focuses on national standards, the SCDA tailors these standards to fit the needs of South Carolina.