The Asian Gypsy Moth, Bt and Foray 48B. - 151 Reasons To Consider The Public Health Implications Before Any Aerial Pesticide Use in Ballard / Magnolia. Originally prepared by Dianne Wharton. and the Society Targeting Overuse of Pesticides ,(STOP), a citizens group in British Columbia Canada. This treatise is the fruit of exhaustive research by citizens wronged by their government. It contains quotations, and citation to scientific and agency data that is crucial for grasping a complex issue, and is adopted in its entirety.
Prepared by Benjamin S. Schroeter April 2000
PART 1. Our Case Against Moth Spraying
THE GYPSY MOTH POSES NO THREAT TO B.C. (or WASHINGTON STATE) TREES
The gypsy moth is known as the "GANGRENE MOTH" because it only attacks trees that are already stressed, diseased and dying.
1) "Based on the amount of movement of people and goods between countries in this modern era, it is highly likely that both the Asian and European gypsy moth have been introduced into Vancouver on at least several occasions. The fact is that they are not established in the area indicates that it is more than likely that they would not become established." Dr. Donald Lee Dahlsten, Professor of Entomology, University of California at Berkeley
2) "Gypsy moth does not occur in Britain or Scandinavia, areas that have climates most similar to Vancouver and many areas of B.C." and "Gypsy moth is not present in coniferous forests typical of British Columbian forests." Dr. Judith Myers, Professor of Entomology, University of British Columbia
3) "It is strange that cargo ships have been coming here from Asia for many years but only recently has the gypsy moth been given attention. Why haven't there been infestations already if we have a vulnerable forest?" Dr. Kenneth Graham, Professor, Forest Entomology, University of British Columbia
4) "I am opposed to the current gypsy moth spray program for a number of reasons of which the following are primary: The originally stated purpose of the spray program was eradication. That is impossible in practice because the moth is now so widely spread in North America. The actual purpose is abatement." Dr. Bryan P. Beirne, Professor, Pest Management, Simon Fraser University B.C.
5) "There is little evidence to demonstrate that what is being done is in fact effective in dealing with the problem. The gypsy moth prefer broadleaf trees such as oaks and willows. The aerial spraying program will only provide a short term solution and therefore repeated spraying will be required." Dr. Manfred Mackauer, Professor, Pest Management, Simon Fraser University B.C.
6) "If left untreated, gypsy moth populations will soon collapse of their own accord and leave little if any lasting damage." Dr. Stanley Wecker, Professor of Biology, City College, New York
7) "I am unaware of the fact that gypsy moths (of our eastern variety) will eat coniferous needles. What they will do is "barber" the new growth needles, biting them off near the tip but unable to digest them, spit them out.'' Dr. D.J. Ecobichon, Professor, McGill University
8) "I believe that Russian ships have been discharging moths for many years into Vancouver, and they just have not been able to reproduce here." Jorma Jyrkkanen, Environmental Consultant, Terrace, B.C.
9) "Ministry cancels spraying programs for gypsy moths and budworm - In the past 10 years of research into the effects of gypsy moth in Ontario, the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry Canada have observed that this insect has had very little impact on forests. Tree mortality in infested stands has been similar to natural mortality in forest stands." News release from the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources, dated February 13, 1992
10) "Our recommendation for the control of the gypsy moth, is not to use any treatment at all." Common-Sense Pest Control, The Taunton Press 1991 Dr. William Olkowski, Pest Management Consultant
11) "The direct impact of an established gypsy moth population on B.C.'s natural resources would likely be small." (page 3)
"Apart from the susceptible Garry oak stands and perhaps aspen (especially in early years) B.C. forests should be quite resistant to gypsy moth. Outbreaks only occur in stands composed of the most favoured hosts, and particularly in open, stressed stands of these trees. As well, a substantial component of the complex of natural enemies of the gypsy moth already occurs in B.C. including predators, parasitoids and disease." (page 33)
^ÓThere was unanimity among most stakeholders that gypsy moth is considered primarily a ^Ñpeople pest^Ò and does not pose a serious forest health threat." (page 35)
"In the years since gypsy moth has become established, (in Ontario) no Ontario shipments of logs, Christmas trees or nursery stock have ever been denied access to U.S. markets because of detected gypsy moth life stages." (page 39) A Risk Assessment of European Gypsy Moth in British Columbia (Ministry of Forests 1994)
12) "As an entomologist, it is my opinion that the 1994 Victoria/Saanich "eradication" program is not only impractical but also economically unsound. The presence of this species in Eastern Canada, the lower Mainland, and various U.S. states makes eradication an exercise in futility. Without an effective quarantine control program aimed at B.C. borders and between Vancouver Island and the United States and Canadian mainland, prevention of the introduction of European and Asian moths by transportation modes will be next to impossible." Dr. Celso E. Mendoza, Toxicologist & Entomologist
13) "Gypsy moth has been established in North America since its introduction in 1868. Its larvae feed on a very wide variety of plants - some 78 species of deciduous and coniferous trees in the wild and a further 39 under laboratory conditions. It can therefore exploit a wide range of habitats and successfully resist eradication attempts. Control, rather than eradication, is a more attainable goal, and requires less drastic measures."
"Alternative methods for control of Gypsy Moth which are specific to that insect are available, namely the use of traps baited with sex-attractant pheromones, and these should be the methods of choice." Dr. Rory P. Finegan, Biologist, University of Victoria B.C.
14) "The gypsy moth tends to attack areas of the forest that are not especially healthy, and there is evidence that the moth may actually do some good."
"The gypsy moth isn't a pest, indeed, if the gypsy moth population gets any lower, I may "import" some from neighboring valleys." Daniel Smiley, Biologist, commenting on his observations of gypsy moths on his 7,500 acre resort estate in Mohonk Lake, New York. PART 2. Our Case Against Moth Spraying THE EFFECT OF MOTH SPRAYING ON HUMAN HEALTH
15) "Bacillus thuringiensis - A species that is an insect pathogen and that has been implicated in human and mammalian infections." Stedman's Medical Dictionary (latest edition)
16) "Bacillus thuringiensis toxin (Btk) can be fatal to people using anti-ulcer drugs." Dr. Joseph E. Cummins, Assoc. Professor University of Western Ontario
17) "Foray 48B contains compounds additional to B.t. that are potentially harmful to man and animals, such as sodium hydroxide which is on an EPA hazards list." Dr. Bryan P. Beirne, Professor Emeritus Simon Fraser University
18) A nine-year old boy suffered a life-threatening reaction when his yard was sprayed with Foray 48B. He had a rash over his entire body, including his face, and a temperature of 103 degrees F. He was vomiting and had diarrhea and his skin was non-peeling. A blood test confirmed that B.t. had cultured in his system. The B.t. culture was resistant to Penicillin and several other antibiotics. The boy was hospitalized for 5 days then released. A week later he suffered a relapse, and was readmitted to hospital for an additional 2 days. The symptoms listed in the New Jersey Department of Health report include a "temperature of 103 degrees F lasting for 5 days, bilateral conjunctiva-injected, red, dark papillae tongue, skin peeling on palms and soles of feet, scaly and erythematous, rash on entire body." >From an EPA access to information request Re an "Unreasonable Adverse Effect Incident" involving Foray 48B.
19) "The reported case is of a woman of unspecified age, apparently well and without significant past illness, who was accidentally sprayed with Thuricide (a B.t. formulation) on 25 April 1988. She immediately experienced burning, itching, and swelling of her face and upper chest. Over the next four days, she developed a febrile illness, became delirious, and the day of admission to hospital apparently had a generalized seizure." >From Dr. Andrew Jin's report: "Btk as a Human Pathogen" prepared for the Vancouver Health Department, September 20, 1988
20) "When bacterial (B.t.) spores are inhaled or rubbed into the skin, they become "foreign proteins" and can cause serious allergic reactions in certain susceptible individuals." Dr. William Olkowski, Pest Management Consultant Common-Sense Pest Control, The Taunton Press 1991
21) "The three reported cases in the Oregon Study have clearly isolated and identified the organism Btk from these patients. The one immuno-compromised patient who subsequently died because of the infection was found to be septicemic and suffered pneumonitis."
"...Btk may be pathogenic to sheep fed corn with the formulation." "Under American F.D.A. rules these "inerts" (the non-active ingredients in pesticides) may in fact be hazardous chemical wastes. (Hazardous Waste News #258, November 6, 1991, page 8)" Dr. Donald Cameron, Neurologist North Vancouver B.C.
22) "The Oregon Health Division received a report from a health care provider about a patient who apparently had an allergic reaction to Foray 48B used during the Asian gypsy moth spray program in north Portland." (1992)
"The individual's initial symptoms included difficulty breathing, chest tightness, itching in the mouth and throat, nasal congestion and plugging of the ears, and hoarseness. These symptoms were followed within 45 minutes by upper body joint pain and a variety of neurologic symptoms. According to the individual's physician, the reported symptoms were typical of previous allergic reactions." Dr. Michael Heumann, Epidemiologist, Oregon Health Division to Novo Nordisk
23) "In New Brunswick, a poorly documented incident of an aerial over spray of two elderly people by a B.t. formulation raised concerns about post exposure, nonspecific health effects including dermal rash, hive-like wheals, increased incidence of respiratory infections and general malaise." Dr. D.J. Ecobichon, Professor of Toxicology, McGill University
[New Brunswick designates buffer zones to protect homes from aerial spraying. The buffer zone for Bt is 500 feet from the nearest human habitation.]
24) "After reviewing the literature, I believe there is a statistically significant risk of serious health consequences to a minority of the population."
"Do we have to wait for an autopsy before we have proof?" Dr. Art Edamura, Preventive Medicine Centre, Vancouver, B.C.
25a) "In the product monolog, there is a precaution to avoid inhalation or contact with eyes or open wounds."
"Another product monolog ... states that if someone has already developed an allergy to one of the components of Foray 48B or has asthma of a type that could be initiated by irritants such as tobacco smoke or pollens, then this patient could be affected by exposure to even small quantities of Foray 48B." Dr. Jeremy Road, Respirologist, University of British Columbia
25b) B.t. can cause irritation or inflammation. U.S. Department of Agriculture 1995 citing U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) 1986
26) "Until the scientific community agrees unanimously that aerial spraying is harmless to respiratory health, the Lung Association will continue to say "NO" to the practice." The British Columbia Lung Association.
27) "The British Columbia Society of Allergists and Immunologists has gone on record opposing the use of the bacterial insecticide (B.t.) in the use against the gypsy moth. I would like to align myself with that position." Dr. R.M. Schaffrin, Asthma & Allergy Specialist, Vancouver B.C.
28) "The concern of the Association is that there is inadequate research into the short and long term health effects of this product. (Btk.)" The Association of Naturopathic Physicians of British Columbia
29) "Foray 48B, the bacterial insecticide, is causing weakness in the pancreas, lungs, and liver. This noxious substance is producing symptoms that are related to the above organs." "The most common symptoms that I have seen are a pressure feeling on the chest or chest pain, headaches, nausea, sore throat, coughing, chilliness, diarrhea, and drowsiness. Long term effects are, of course, unknown but when major organs and glands are thrown into disarray and malfunction for months or years, life threatening illness could result." Grant Smith, Certified Acupuncturist State of California #530
30) "However, I am now in way over my head. As the attached letter from Dr. Cameron, a neurologist, shows, while there is nothing in the medical literature, there may be individual sensitivities. This would make an aerial spray in a populated area a problem. Since I cannot review this on my own, I would like if you would refer this to the Provincial Medical Advisory Committee or contact with somebody to do a complete evaluation. This is a plea for help as I told Dr. Cameron I am more concerned with airplanes spraying in a built-up area than I am with the Bacillus. However, Dr. Cameron is using a scattergun approach to his letter - if he is right, we should be more concerned, and, if he is wrong, the facts should be set out. Can you help - please^Ô? Dr. F.J. Blatherwick, Vancouver Health Officer to the Provincial Health Officer, March 9, 1992
(One month later half-a-million people were subjected to the first in a series of 4 aerial sprayings, and in many cases 4 ground sprayings as well)
31) "In this current case the Board believes that the communications team should have included medical expertise provided by Agriculture Canada to support their claims of safety."
And, referring to the Health Study which was funded by Agriculture Canada; ^Ó . . . there was no planned surveillance program and one had to be hastily put together." Metropolitan Board of Health of Greater Vancouver, June 25, 1992
32) "Pesticides should be banned. There is nowhere to hide from those who have the power to control and to kill nature. Aerial spraying of chemicals, insecticides or herbicides is a terrorism." Dr. June Irwin, Medical Specialist Pointe-Claire, Quebec
33) "Spreading of pesticides from aircraft is forbidden." Swedish Code of Statutes, Ordinance on Pesticides, Section 13, 21 November 1985
34) A healthy 18-year-old agriculture worker accidentally splashed Dipel (a B.t. formulation) into his right eye. He immediately developed conjunctivitis. Three days of treatment with an antibiotic ointment was not effective. He then began treatment with a corticosteroid ointment and after 7 days of this he developed a corneal ulcer. Cultures of the corneal ulcer produced Btk. cells, the same as those in the Dipel. Corneal ulcer caused by a biological insecticide J.R. Samples & H. Buettner, American Journal of Ophthalmology, 95 (2) February 1983
35) A healthy 24-year-old laboratory worker accidentally stuck a needle contaminated with B.t. and Acinetobacter into the webs pace between his third and fourth fingers. Within 2 hours the finger became painful and 4 hours after the accident he admitted himself to an emergency department. The finger was discoloured and the hand was swollen. Despite antibiotic therapy lymphangitis developed, reaching the shoulder and the patient remained toxic. Over a finger joint about 5 cm from the inoculation site, B.t. cells were grown. He recovered after 5 days. R.E. Warren, D. Rubenstein et al The Lancet, March 24, 1984
The following (#^Òs 36 ^Ö 44) are from studies in support of EPA Registration of Foray 48B, 1990:
36) "Gross pathological examination revealed mottled lungs, sometimes dark, the number of animals affected was greater in Group 2 where the majority of animals showed this finding. Results obtained from the analyses showed that Btk. could be isolated from lung samples, which indicated that the formulation was respirable. The results also showed that Btk. was poorly eliminated from the rat lung over a period of 28 days." (at which time the animals were sacrificed.) Acute Inhalation Toxicity Study in Rats, Oshodi, R.O. et al, Inveresk Research Internat.
37) "A group of 10 mice, 5 males and 5 females was treated with inactivated (autoclaved) test material in an amount which would be comparable to 10 8 CFU per animal. The observation period was 7 days following treatment. Mortality was seen on day 2 at the 10 8 CFU per animal dose." (4 out of 5 males and 3 out of 5 females died) Screen for Pathogenicity and Toxicity of Strain by Injection of Mice, Novo Nordisk, Denmark
***Editor^Òs note: Novo Nordisk was the company that used to own the rights to the Foray series of Bt pesticide formulations. Abbott Laboratories purchased the formula rights in the early 1990^Òs. Valent BioSciences then purchased Abbott.
38a) Four of five rats died within 23 hours. Edema and hemorrhages were seen in the pyloric part of the stomach in all rats; two rats had enlarged spleens; the rat that was killed had a necrotic tail and extensive oedema and hemorrhages on the hindquarters stretching down on the hind legs. Acute Intravenous Toxicity/Pathogenicity Study on 5 rats, Berg, N., Novo Nordisk A/S, Denmark
38b) "Up to 3 weeks after the injection of the test organism a treatment related unspecific reactive hepatitis was seen in the treated rats." Acute Intravenous Toxicity/Pathogenicity Study on 32 rats, Berg, N., Novo Nordisk A/S, Denmark
39) Eye irritation studies 91504 and 91505 showed that Foray 48B may be considered a "moderate" irritant. Study 90135 showed it to be a "substantial" eye irritant. Eye Irritation Study in Rabbits with the End Product Foray 48B, 1991, Berg, N., Novo Nordisk
40) "Prominent in-life observations included activity decrease, alopecia, piloerection and polyuria." (in other words - the rat's hair was standing on end, as in a state of shock, and falling out either completely or partially. The increased frequency in urination indicates the body's way of eliminating toxins). Acute Inhalation Toxicity Study in Rats (1991) with Foray 76B, Holbert, M.S., Stillmeadow, Inc.
41) "Subcutaneous injection of B.t. led to alteration in the immunological reactivity of the test animals of both the specific and nonspecific type, manifested by increased sensitization of peritoneal macrophages." Changes in Cell Mediated Reactivity of Guinea Pigs during Sensitization with B.t., V.P. Padalkin et al, Moscow Journal of Microbiology #6 (1985)
42) A study of 1,043 vineyard workers who were exposed to 16 pesticides over a period of 294 days found that in 10 of the 25 cases of skin rash, B.t. had been sprayed on the vineyard within 14 days of the rash occurrence. No other chemical was found to have been applied to the vineyards within 14 days of the rash occurrence on more than five occasions. Winter, C.K. and P.H. Kurtz, September 1985 Bulletin of Environmental Contamination & Toxicity, Vol.35, No.3
43) "Bacterial preparations such as Entobakterin (a B.t. preparation) are being increasingly used in agriculture in the USSR.."
"Continued inhalation of the material by white rats had unfavourable lung effects, which are described. This suggests that workers applying such materials should be protected."
"There were also allergic effects on laboratory animals in contact with the material." The Use of Bacterial Insecticides Needs Care, V.I. Murza et al, Zashchita Rasteni #5
44) B.t. due to its mutagenic potential may be hazardous to humans and other mammals. Chromosomes were found to be the primary target and in some cases the DNA system became inhibited. B.t. has an action which breaks the cell membrane and research continues on its possible use in studies on cancer cells. Thus, it has the potential to damage all cells. The authors end the study with the following warning: "The data conclusively indicate the need for caution against large scale use of microbial insecticides in crop fields." Cytogenetic Hazards from Agricultural Chemicals C.B.S.R. Sharma et al, Mutation Research #46
45) On August 14, 1992 a laboratory reported that a group of workers who were out in a forest when it was sprayed with Foray 48B experienced burning throats and skin irritations. (HI Log #26521) The National Pesticide Telecommunications Network, Health Sciences Center,Texas Tech Univ.
46) "Btk. has been used extensively as an insect biocide but has not been adequately studied in neutropenic (immunosuppressed) animals or characterized as to its risk for neutropenic patients."
"Lethality in neutropenic mice receiving B.t. was 50% "
"Virtually all non-neutropenic mice survived challenge."
"Further studies are warranted to characterize the pathogenicity of B.t. and exclude a possible role in human disease." R.E. Bryant et al, Health Sciences University, Portland, Oregon (1993)
47) During the 1986 gypsy moth spraying of Lane County Oregon, the personal B.t. exposure monitoring results were as follows:
Breathing zone (BZ) samples for personnel involved in the spraying indicated B.t. exposure ranged from 0 to 11,000 Colony Forming Units per cubic meter of air. (CFU/m3)
General Public BZ samples ranged from 0 to 1600 CFU/m3. A grocery store clerk and a service station attendant, who were not in direct contact with the spray, had positive B.t. exposure of 1000, and 1600 CFU/m3 respectively.
General area air monitoring results for B.t. include 50, 500, and 800 CFU/m3 at restaurant locations within the spray area, and indicate the general public exposure potential. A sample result of 4200 CFU/m3 collected at a heavily trafficked road intersection immediately following the spray also reflects public exposure potential.
"Air sampling results for this project indicate that microbial insecticides of this type (Btk.) can be transmitted throughout the environment. Future sampling efforts and results should indicate the prominence and proliferation these organisms can gain in the environment after such wide scale application. Therefore, careful consideration should be given prior to the deliberate release of genetically modified microorganisms (such as Btk.). The public health, ecological and occupational health consequences must be carefully explored and evaluated before these novel organisms are used." The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) Health Hazard Evaluation Report, Gypsy moth control project, Oregon 1986
Some say that Genetic Engineering, Biological Warfare and the Military are involved in Bt (#^Òs 48-52):
48) "We believe that perhaps the greatest potential for bio-hazards involving alterations of micro-organisms relates to possible military applications. We believe strongly that construction of genetically altered micro-organisms for any military purpose should be expressly prohibited by International Treaty, and we urge that such prohibitions be agreed upon as expeditiously as possible." Raymond Zilinskas, Politics & the Life Sciences, Volume 2, No.1, August 1983
49) "Other agencies such as the Research Branch of Agriculture Canada and the Department of National Defense will assume key roles also." R.F. Deboo, B.C. Forest Service, Agriculture Canada Gypsy Moth Strategy Session, Van. 1985
50) "There have always been persistent rumours of a military involvement in the aerial spraying of Vancouver and area residents. Yet, when Agriculture Canada officials were questioned, under oath, at the Environmental Appeal Board Hearing in March 1993 as to whether or not you were an active member of the Canadian Armed Forces they denied any knowledge of this. We would like to take this opportunity to ask, why you, an army doctor, is involved in a surveillance program which monitors the health reactions of a civilian population to pesticide spraying?" Letter to Lt. Colonel C.J. Cook, M.D. From the Society Targeting Overuse of Pesticides Dated February 18, 1994
51) " At least five Salt spring residents have suffered adverse health reactions after two unmarked Canadian Forces helicopters spent an unlucky Friday, March 13 spraying an unknown substance over the island."
"The symptoms match those of Btk. poisoning. A weeklong investigation by Green Islands has revealed that Canadian Forces Sea Kings have been flying purported "training missions" to prepare their pilots for an intensive Btk. spraying campaign over densely populated neighborhoods in Vancouver, the Gulf Islands and lower B.C. mainland." ISLANDERS HIT BY SECRET MILITARY SPRAYING, Green Islands Press Release, March 22, 1992
52) "Just what was sprayed over Saltspring Island on March 13 and the two days prior to that date? Who authorized it and why?"
"Minister, enough con games. Human health is at risk here."
"As you know, your department is trying to steamroll the experimental spraying of B.t. on the residents of much of the City of Vancouver, supposedly to prevent an outbreak of Asian gypsy moth. You are probably aware that Vancouver residents do not appreciate their being used as guinea pigs by promoters of this scheme." Jim Fulton, M.P. to the Minister of Agriculture March 30, 1992
53) The risk of developing antibodies to the spray bacteria increases not only with the degree of exposure, but the chronology of exposure. The highest level of Btk. antibodies were found in workers who had been exposed for two consecutive years. B.C. Ministry of Health 1992 citing Valero & Letarte, 1989
54) Industrial reports indicate that B.t.k. can be cultured from various superficial sites on exposed humans and that antibodies to B.t.k. are greater in individuals in areas sprayed with B.t.k. than in individuals in untreated areas. Abbott Labs, November 1992
55a) Endotoxins are bacterial toxins which contaminate the air and make people ill. Mold can also cause a number of health reactions including respiratory problems. Health Canada & Canada Mortgage & Housing Corp., Study of Molds and other contaminants. 55b) One litre of Foray 48B contains approximately 25 grams of delta endotoxin. And, Foray 48B contains viable yeasts and molds. Novo Nordisk re Foray 48B, March 26, 1992
56) "The argument about the safety of Btk. because it occurs naturally is spurious. The organism of tetanus, as well as the pus organism Bacillus pyocyaneus (pseudomonas aeruginosa) are naturally occurring too." Dr. Kenneth Graham, Professor Emeritus, Forest Entomology, University of British Columbia.
57) "Concerning the use of B.t. formulations for gypsy moth (or spruce budworm) etc., the Province of New Brunswick still has in force a setback zone of 150 metres (not 75 metres) from human habitation for all formulations." Dr. D.J. Ecobichon, Professor of Toxicology, McGill University
58) "Evidence has been inadequate to show the safety of Foray 48B for spraying on human populations. In my personal and professional opinion, mass spraying programs for gypsy moth eradication cannot be justified and the potential risks to human populations and the environment do not justify an aerial spraying program of the magnitude proposed by Agriculture Canada in the Saanich/Victoria area. As a toxicologist, I would prefer to err on the side of safety where there is any doubt as to the safety of the urban spraying of Btk. Given recent studies, I have considerable doubt as to its safety and its efficacy to "eradicate" the gypsy moth." Dr. Celso E. Mendoza, Toxicologist and Entomologist
59) "There is a rich literature on the harmful effects on animal and human health of B.t. formulations."
"The use of aerial spray techniques is inappropriate in urban areas where it will expose large numbers of people to a bacterial fallout."
(The proponents of the spray program) "...may in mistaken belief in the harmlessness to human and environmental health of the spray materials to be used, disregarding or de-emphasizing evidence to the contrary, in future years become subject to lawsuits of the sort that now beset blood transfusion workers who in the past disregarded evidence that the blood they were transfusing might be contaminated by the AIDS virus." Dr. R.P. Finegan, Biologist, University of Victoria, B.C.
60) "There is always a possibility that allergic or asthmatic people may react to minute quantities of any substance. This is the reason for saying in reference to B.t. that it may not be 100% safe for a small group of people. If your family members are chemically sensitive, they may react to B.t. use around the house." Health Protection Branch, Health and Welfare Canada, April 5, 1993
61) "Serious infections caused by organisms of the genus Bacillus developed in seven patients."
"At least two patients with no underlying illness and one with chronic asthma who was receiving prednisone therapy, also had fatal Bacillus infections develop." Serious Infections from Bacillus sp. Carmelita U. Tuazon et al, JAMA Vol.241, #11
62) "Although one cannot extrapolate directly to humans, these results indicate that Btk. is not "safe" in rats. That is there is evidence of lung injury on exposure to it. These results also indicate that Btk. is respirable. I would be surprised if any ethics committee appointed to review whether this product can be safely tested in humans, would approve it for testing in humans based on the results of this study in rats." A Review of the Inveresk Research International, Acute Inhalation Study on Rats, Dr. Jeremy Road, Respirologist, University of British Columbia
63) In 1992, ground spray workers in Vancouver suffered from a number of health complaints including dry, itchy skin; chapped lips; red, itchy, burning, puffy eyes; headache; dry, sore throat; "runny" nose; stuffy sinuses; cough and tightness in chest; nausea and diarrhea. Twenty-four physicians in the spray area took a nasal swab sample from the first 5 patients to walk into their office. The results showed that more than 11% of the exposed people were carrying B.t. in their tissues. Noble M. et al, 1992
64) Of the 251 individuals who reported health complaints, over 40% were consistent with eye/nose/throat irritation or allergic rhinitis (hay fever). Viral gastroenteritis symptoms ("intestinal flu") were reported by 14%, 9% reported exacerbated asthma, 8% exacerbated allergies and 7% allergic skin reactions such as hives or swelling. Rashes occurred in 45 individuals (18%). Other symptoms were reported by 29%. Six individuals received treatment in emergency rooms, five for allergic skin reactions and one for asthma.
"Reducing the exposure of populations to spray would be one method of eliminating any possibility of health effects ... preventing the organisms from reaching the North America mainland would eliminate the need for future spray programs. Rigorous efforts in this area should be continued."
"Anecdotal reports indicate that the spray program was potentially distracting to drivers ... Sun glare from spray on the windshields caused temporary risk to motorists, who had to pull off the highway to clean their windows. Low flying helicopters were potentially distracting to drivers. These safety issues should be considered as additional public health issues." Washington State Department of Health, Report of Health Surveillance Activities, Asian Gypsy Moth Control Program, March 1993
Bacillus thuringiensis, Cereus and Anthracis are so closely related they are almost inter-changeable. (No^Òs. 65-76)
65) "As some of you know, although B. thuringiensis and B. anthracis were assigned to varietal status (Bacillus cereus var. thuringiensis and Bacillus cereus var. anthracis) by Smith, Gordon & Clark (1952) and later by Gordon, Haynes & Pang (1973), Bergey's Manual still recognizes B. thuringiensis and B. anthracis as separate species.
When Dr. Smith agreed to write the section on the genus Bacillus for the sixth edition of the Manual he asked Dr. Breed, Editor of the Manual, for his advice on the presentation of these two species. Dr. Breed said that because B. anthracis had great historical and medical importance and B. thuringiensis was of economic importance, he would advise their being recognized as separate species. Who says the definition of a species is not dependent on the opinion of the editor!
In the two succeeding editions of the Manual, I unsuccessfully opposed this recognition because, as I have said, I firmly believe that a species should be so described that the name of a strain cannot change from that of one species to another because of its loss of an unstable property. I should like to see B. thuringiensis follow B. mycoides and become B. cereus." Dr. Ruth E. Gordon, Microbiologist, Waksman Institute of Microbiology, Rutgers University
66) "The present study demonstrated that B.t. produces a hemolysin identical with that produced by B.cereus, a toxigenic organism of food poisoning. Therefore spraying of living cells of B.t. as an insecticide should be re-examined with respect to its safety for humans." T. Honda et al, FEMS Microbiology Letters 79 '91
67) Three family members who ate honey on Christmas day developed an illness characterized by vomiting and diarrhea. A sample of the honey was provided to the Chief of Microbiology at the University of Missouri who identified it as Bacillus cereus. The Centers for Disease Control subsequently received the isolate for confirmation and determined that it was B.t. and not B. cereus.
"B.T. is very closely related to B. cereus, differing mainly by the ability of B.t. to produce a crystalline toxin which acts as an insecticide."
"Microbiologists at FDA have demonstrated that 9 of 11 commercially available strains of B.t. tested to date elaborated the diarrhea-producing enterotoxin associated with B. cereus food poisoning."
"B.T. is used widely and may contaminate many food sources. This raises the possibility that it may be an important foodborne pathogen. Since the illness is likely to resemble B.cereus food poisoning and have a short incubation period and short duration, few outbreaks are likely to be reported or investigated fully." New Jersey Division of Disease Control Via N.J. Beekeepers Association News
68) "Although it has not been specifically linked with food poisoning, the practice of applying viable preparations of B.t. to food crops as an insecticide by both home gardeners and commercial growers may present a special hazard.
The ability of B.t. cultures to induce fluid accumulation in the ligated rabbit ileum (Spira and Goepfert 1972) and to produce diarrhea in monkeys (Bennett and Harmon 1986) plus the easily demonstrable presence of the diarrheal antigen in culture fluids of most B.t. strains with the micro slide gel diffusion test (Bennett and Harmon 1986) raise doubt about the safety of this practice.
Certainly, thorough rinsing of leafy vegetables that have been treated with B.t. is a minimal precaution: there is no published information to suggest that B.t. is less capable of proliferating in foods than are the enterotoxigenic B. cereus strains. To the contrary, the two species behave similarly in susceptible foods at ordinary food holding temperatures." Dr. Reginald Bennett, Microbiologist, U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
69) "We suggest that isolates of B. cereus from cases of soft-tissue infection in countries where B.t. is widely used be examined for parasporal inclusions to see if natural B.t. infections are being overlooked."
"The possibility of transfer of toxigenic plasmids from B.t. to B. cereus in the environment is raised. Indeed the species may need to be redefined." R.E. Warren et al, The Lancet Medical Journal, March 24, 1994
70) "Bacillus cereus is primarily associated with food borne gastroenteritis due to preformed toxin. Even so, its role as a pathogen responsible for various sometimes severe, local and systemic infections is being increasingly recognized. It is most commonly implicated in fulminant infections of the eye which include endophthalmitis and panophthalmitis, wound infections, septicaemia, endocarditis, meningitis, osteomyelitis, septic arthritis and prosthetic joint infections, all associated with morbidity and mortality." Bacillus Cereus Meningitis In Two Neurosurgical Patients, D. Barrie et al, J. of Infection 25,192
71) "Both B.t. and B. sphaericus are entomopathogens which can cause disease in man." F.A. Drobniewski et al, Journal of Applied Bacteriology, Vol.76 (1994)
72) B.t. has been reported to be a mammalian pathogen in one case where it was identified as the causal agent in a fatal case of bovine mastitis. Gordon, R.E., Some Taxonomic Observations on the Genus Bacillus, 1977.
73) "Thus B.t. can easily take up an anthrax plasmid and create anthrax related disease in mammals. Such plasmid transfers readily take place in nature. It is grotesque and improper for people who claim expert knowledge to maintain that plasmid exchanges are out of the question. Indeed, government bureaucrats and university administrators are clearly showing a common malady, scientific imperialism. They are using their positions to promote views that are contrary to well established facts and palming off such views on poorly informed members of the public." Dr. Joseph E. Cummins, Professor (Genetics) University of Western Ontario
74) One of the oldest known diseases of animals and man, anthrax was first mentioned by Moses in the Old Testament (Exodus 9:9). In recent times, an outbreak of anthrax in Russia killed 500 people in a matter of hours. The New York Times, March 18, 1980
75) There has even been a case, described by scientists as "surprising" of successful plasmid transfer between B.t. and the distantly related species E.coli. Trieu-Cuot et al., 1987, FEMS Microbiol.Lett.48
76) A Health Department investigation found that an outbreak of Legionnaire's disease in Burnaby which claimed two lives in June, 1993 was caused by bacteria multiplying in a hot tub.
"There's never been another incident of a hot tub user contracting Legionnaire's disease before. So, why did this tragedy suddenly occur in Burnaby last summer?
A possible explanation is the aerial spraying with the bacterial pesticide B.t. which took place on June 9, just one day prior to the victims of this deadly disease falling ill.
The hot tub was located only four miles from the spray zone and B.t. when aerially sprayed drifts many miles from point of application. It is also well known for its mutagenic tendencies. Could B.t. have drifted into the hot tub on that fateful day in June and mutated? Chemical Drift Theory Cited by J. Friesen, Burnaby Now, November 28, 1993
77) "Acceptable levels of Streptococci, Staphylococcus, Coliform bacteria and Salmonella sp. are allowed in B.t. formulations." Dr. Roy Ellis, B.T.K. January 1991, Prairie Pest Management
78) "According to Agriculture Canada this contaminant (streptococcus) represented either non-or low-order pathogenicity, and exposure under typical forestry-use applications would not likely produce adverse health effects." (But what about city-use applications?) Dr. Roy Ellis, B.T.K., January 1991, Prairie Pest Management
79) B.t. spray programs in the United States and Canada have been repeatedly put on hold due to the discovery of high levels of Streptococcus bacteria. In 1987 this happened in Ontario.
"Ontario has sent samples of its B.t. to the Ministry of Health Laboratories, and anticipates results this week." Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources News Release, May 15, 1987
80) Researchers at the Centres for Disease Control in Atlanta have cautioned that Group A Streptococcus infections have re-emerged as a public-health problem. Streptococcus Type A has generated itself from a much more common streptococcus bacteria that is present in the throats of 10 percent of the population. This demonstrates how easily species of bacteria through the free exchange of genetic information can mutate into "super-germs.'
In May 1994 an outbreak of Strep A in Britain killed 11 people, while others lost limbs to the disease. In March 1995 there were 4 deaths in Quebec from Strep A within a 2 week period. The deaths of an adult mother and daughter in Montreal within one week from Strep A has led health officials to believe that the disease may be contagious.
B.t. is a live bacteria and is extremely prone to mutation. It stands to reason, that this type of mutagenic pathogen, found to be contaminated by high levels of Streptococcus in the past, should not be sprayed anywhere near human populations. Especially, since deadly bacterial infections for which there is no cure, are on the rise.
81) Btk. produces a crystal that dissolves in the alkaline gut of moth larvae and causes disease. As the human stomach is acidic (so the theory goes) it is, therefore, unaffected if Btk. is ingested. Unfortunately, there is a serious flaw in this line of reasoning as our acidity is not a constant. We can, when we have a cold or flu, or when we are taking antacids or other ulcer medications lose acidity very rapidly thus becoming just as vulnerable to the Btk. toxin as the moth. However, even those who do not have a cold or flu, and are not taking stomach medications may also be at risk. The Canadian Journal of Health & Nutrition-Alive, (February 1995) contained a report about researchers who believe that the main cause of chronic fatigue, which is now reaching pandemic proportions, is lack of acidity. For some reason we are becoming more alkaline like the moth.
82a) "Those with a specific absence or reduction of gastric acidity following gastric surgery, antacid or ulcer-healing medication could face a risk" (from Btk.). Dr. F.A. Drobniewski, Journal of Applied Bacteriology, 1994, Volume 76
82b) "In my opinion, ingesting unwashed treated produce could be fatal to humans with reduced gastric acidity."
"Bacillus thuringiensis toxin (Btk.) can be fatal to people using anti-ulcer drugs." Dr. Joseph E. Cummins, Professor (Genetics), University of Western Ontario
83) "Nobody likes to be sprayed by government with anything at any time." Dr. John Blatherwick, Vancouver Health officer, to Agriculture Canada, January 4, 1994
84) "The percentage of sixty-two people reporting allergies to the spray was 22.6%; almost dying, 3.2%; experiencing anaphylactic shock from exposure, 1.6%; brain & nervous system disorders, 56.5% digestive disorders, 77.4%; emotional reactions, 64.5% respiratory tract difficulties, 114.5%; other symptoms, 30.6%; skin problems 17.7%; systemic infection, 8.1%; very sick with unusual cold/flu symptoms, 71%." Concerning Human and Environmental effects of Exposure to Foray 48B, Victoria/Saanich 1993-1994, The Ecological Health Alliance
85) Following every Foray 48B spraying there are literally hundreds of reported health reactions. For example, during the 1994 spraying of Saanich, 290 such incidents were recorded by the Ecological Health Alliance. The few case histories, which follow, are typical of the type of calls that have been received by environmental health societies in the lower mainland and Vancouver Island since the spraying began in 1992.
(a) A five-year old child who had been aerially sprayed with Foray 48B as she ran towards the family car immediately began to vomit. She had never vomited before. The incident was reported to the Burnaby Health Officer by the attending physician and subsequently to Dr. Rick Mathias (Agriculture Canada's medical spokesperson) who stated that the health reaction was not spray related. Health Action Network Society
(b) A two~year old child who suffered a seizure and stopped breathing after Foray 48B was sprayed 1 kilometer from his Saanich home in 1993, was denied appropriate blood analysis and culture for Btk. Ecological Health Alliance
(c) A seven-year old child suffered sudden onset asthma after being caught in the 1992 Vancouver spraying. Kristen J. Eirikson, Attorney
(d) A 36-year old woman, in excellent health, who has worked for B.C. Tel for 18 years spent a great deal of time in Stanley Park during the massive spraying of 1992. She began to experience severe migraine headaches, depression, and neurological symptoms such as extreme dizziness, numbness and disorientation. Her family physician referred her to a number of specialists and she was eventually hospitalized. Her symptoms improved after approximately 6 months but recurred again in April, 1993 when she was exposed to the spraying of Burnaby. Society Targeting Overuse of Pesticides
(e) A 28-year old man, in excellent health, who was caught in a direct over-spray while on a barge in Tacoma in 1992 experienced severe respiratory problems which lasted approximately 6 months. Several medical specialists were consulted. Society Targeting Overuse of Pesticides
(f) A North Vancouver resident with multiple chemical sensitivities left her home while it was being aerially sprayed in 1992. When she attempted to return to North Vancouver several days later she suffered a life-threatening reaction while traveling through the heavily sprayed Stanley Park area. This individual is convinced that she would have died had she remained in her home while it was being sprayed. The incident was reported to her physician, to Agriculture Canada, and with her permission, her medical records were made available to Dr.Rick Mathias who, to-date, has never contacted her. Society Targeting Overuse of Pesticides
g) A Victoria resident with Hashimoto's thyroiditis, an autoimmune disease suffered problems in connection with the first day of spraying in 1993, for which she was hospitalized. Since that time, she has continued to experience recurring infections. On the written orders of her doctor and specialist, she was required to leave the spray area for four days each spray period during 1994 (which meant leaving on and off for several weeks due to numerous announcements and postponements of the spray program).
This presents a significant handicap for an unwell person living on a small disability pension, yet apart from expensive lawsuits against the federal government, no process is in place for legitimately affected persons to receive compensation for even their expenses incurred in leaving the spray area. It may be of interest that in response to my telephone inquiries, solicitors for Agriculture Canada fell back on tired argument that any such compensation could open the floodgates for too many claims. This not only offends our common sense of humanity, but adds further evidence to the argument that a significant portion of the population could have documented medical problems relating to Btk spraying that the current registration system simply over-looks." Kristen J. Eirikson, Lawyer
86) In view of the above, it is interesting to note that when Parksville was sprayed in 1990 Agriculture Canada paid for the expenses of those wishing to leave the spray area.
"CHOICE OF QUALICUM BEACH HOTEL FOR MAY 22, 1990 - The Sand Pebbles Inn was chosen because it is the only suitable accommodation in Qualicum Beach. The purpose of booking the hotel is to accommodate certain residents in Parksville with medical concerns for the duration of the aerial spray on May 23, 1990." Agriculture Canada interoffice memo, May 11,1990
87) "An additional precaution for individuals with serious immune disorders: Individuals with leukemia, AIDS, or other physician diagnosed causes of severe immune disorders may consider leaving the spray area during the actual spraying. Such individuals should consult their doctor for advice about avoiding exposure before the spray project begins." Oregon Department of Agriculture, Gypsy Moth Spray Program, 1992 (The Oregon Department of Agriculture together with the Mayor's Office and Health Division, arranged a shelter program that offered residents who had health concerns free accommodation outside the spray area).
88) "It is regrettable the attitude and activities of Agriculture Canada officials in this project have been such as to produce backlashes that could inhibit financing and public support of more worthy and better planned future projects." Dr. Bryan P. Beirne, Professor Emeritus of Pest Management, Simon Fraser University and former Director of Agriculture Canada's Biological Control Research Institute
89) "In fact, the same Agriculture Canada people who attempted the ill-fated gypsy moth spraying over Kitsilano in 1979, a Mr.Powell and Mr.John Bell - are again at work. If you recall Minister, Agriculture Canada warned of the devastation of B.C. forests if Kitsilano was not sprayed. Direct action efforts by residents prevented the wholesale spray program in 1979 - yet not a single gypsy moth outbreak resulted! Minister, enough con games. Human health is at risk here." Jim Fulton, M.P. to the Minister of Health, March 30, 1992
90a) Remaining indoors with windows and doors shut during the spraying reduces exposure by 80 percent. People with asthma should use a bronchial dilator or other medication prior to the spraying. Dr. Greg Cook, Agriculture Canada's medical spokesperson. Richmond News, March 3, 1993
90b) "Agriculture Canada admits there are people with respiratory problems who shouldn't be around in areas when spraying occurs." Richmond Review, February 28, 1993
91) Exposure to any chemical or biological agent will be associated with some level of risk, and the risk will be assessed with some level of uncertainty.
Both workers and the general public may be subject to cumulative effects through the repeated application of a control agent during a single season or the application of a control agent over several seasons.
As with any preparation containing microorganisms, potential concerns include pathogenicity, persistence of the microorganism in the human body, the genetic stability of the microorganism in the environment, and the ability of the microbial agent to interact with other microorganisms.
As a complex mixture of chemicals, formulations may have toxic properties that are unrelated to the presence of Btk For example, the available data regarding human exposure to Btk. formulations suggest that they cause eye, skin, and respiratory tract irritation. It is not clear, however, that these effects are caused by the microorganisms. United States Department of Agriculture, Gypsy Moth Final Environmental Impact Statement (FEIS) 1995
Comments from Agriculture Canada: Question: "What should I do when the planes go over. Is it (B.t.k.) harmful to infants (4-6 months old)?" Answer: "If you feel uncomfortable stay inside but there is no need to. Agriculture Canada does not recommend leaving the area. It all depends on your personal level of comfort." Question: "Can I stand under the plane and watch?" Answer: "Yes, if you wish. There will be a public open house at a later date where questions such as these could be asked and answered by professionals in that field." Question: "Any effect on human beings, animals, etc.?" Answer: "No, physicians state that there is no risk in aerial spraying. (From the Minutes of Agriculture Canada's Stakeholders Meeting), Chilliwack, British Columbia. January 31, 1995.
92) TOPIC: BACILLUS THURINGIENSIS Treatment Overview: Symptoms if they appear, are those of bacterial food poisoning. Monitor the patient for fluid and electrolyte loss. Control vomiting and diarrhea as needed. Treatment is supportive; there is no antidote. Inhalation exposure:
Decontamination: Move patient to fresh air. Monitor for respiratory distress. If cough or difficulty in breathing develops, evaluate for respiratory tract irritation, bronchitis, or pneumonitis. Administer 100% humidified supplemental oxygen with assisted ventilation as required. Eye Exposure:
Decontamination: Exposed eyes should be irrigated with copious amounts of tepid water for at least 15 minutes. If irritation, pain, swelling, lacrimation, or photophobia persist, the patient should be seen in a health care facility.
Dermal Exposure: Decontamination: Wash exposed area extremely thoroughly with soap and water. A physician may need to examine the area if irritation or pain persists. Animals - Show fever, appetite loss, hematological changes and electrolyte changes post B. thuringiensis administration via oral, intravenous, intranasal and intradermal routes. (Pivovarov et al)
Case Reports: Three of four volunteers who ingested food contaminated with 1 x 10 (5) to 1 x 10 (9) cells per gram of Bacillus thuringiensis developed nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, colic-like abdominal pains, and tenesmus. The incubation period was 8 hours. (Pivovarov et al) Dr. David Spoerke, Tomes Editorial Board Tomes (R) Medical Management (c) 1987-1992 Micromedex Inc. Volume 14
PART 3. Our Case Against Moth Spraying
THE EFFECT OF THE SPRAYING TO THE EVIRONMENT
93) "It has not been possible to obtain environmental impact assessments relating to the target area for the Gypsy Moth eradication program in Victoria or for any other target area in British Columbia. That is, the proponents (Agriculture Canada) do not appear to have carried out any studies relating to the site, its geography, geology, hydrology, epidemiology, ecology, vegetation, wildlife or human inhabitants. There are no baseline studies, inventories of plant and animal species and communities, risk assessments, or cost/benefit studies. There is only an area on a map with some record of the occurrence of a few Gypsy Moths and egg clusters, based on trapping surveys using pheromones." Dr. Rory P. Finegan, Biologist, University of Victoria B.C.
94) "We again stress the importance of having studies done in coastal B.C. on the effects of B.t.k. on non-target species, in order that there would be a clearer understanding of the effect of B.t.k. on the overall ecosystem." Habitat Protection, Fish & Wildlife Management, B.C. Ministry of Environment, January 7, 1994
95) Aerial spraying remains the most highly wasteful, polluting practice still being used in agriculture today. An estimated 85 to 90% of the pesticide drifts off target and less than 1% is necessary to control the target insect. Pesticides can drift for as far as 50 miles from site of application and in less significant concentrations for hundreds of miles depending on particle size, wind conditions, temperature, humidity etc. Dr. Marion Moses, Clinical Professor, University of California, Pesticide Education Center
96) Ground spraying also pollutes the environment with high-pressure hydraulic hoses that gush out torrents of pesticide with such force that birds nests can be knocked right out of trees. The drift from this type of application can range from 50 to 200 feet. Rotary mist-blowers have a jet turbine generator which rotates an aerosol with a range of 150 feet and blankets both sides of the street for blocks and blocks. Drift from mist-blowers has been measured from 160 to 740 feet.
Pressure accidents caused by blown hoses, and the resulting spills are a potential hazard to the public when residential areas are sprayed. The Washington State Department of Health reports 10 such accidents involving ruptured hoses, and the subsequent injury claims in their 1993 annual report. Drift data quoted from The Journal of Pesticide Reform, Spring 1995, Vol.15, No. l
97a) "...Aerially applied B.t. formulations can be detected up to 80 kilometers from the site of release." >From a 1993 study by J.A. Addison, Forestry Canada citing Major, L. et al 1985 Gov't of Quebec
97b) In general, the concentration of spores present in air samples was higher following aerial treatment of a nearby area (within 20 kilometers) with B.t.k." >From a 1993 report by Imre S. Otvos, Forestry Canada citing Major-, L. et al 1985 Gov't of Quebec
97c) Washington State Department of Agriculture received 400 pesticide related complaints in 1993. 29.2% of these calls involved spills, disposal and other, 21.5% direct overspray exposure and 49.3% were related to drift! (1994 Pesticide Incident Reporting & Tracking)
97d) B.t. can grow and replicate in the environment; spores remain in the air for up to 17 days after spraying, in soil for 3 years, and in water for 70 days.
98a) B.t. has the ability to germinate, survive and multiply within the soil system. Saleh, S.M. et al, 1970 J. Invertebr.Pathol.15
98b) "After 11 months, B.t.k. was still present in the soil, and in 85% of the samples the concentration of B.t.k. exceeded pre-application levels." >From a 1993 report by Imre S. Otvos, Forestry Canada citing Cardinal & Marotte 1987, Quebec Gov't
99a) After almost 3 years following treatment, B.t. could still be detected in the soil. West, A.W. et al, 1984, Journal of Invertabrate Pathology v.44
99b) In a field trial conducted in Quebec, two 40-hectare plots were aerially sprayed with B.t.k. Viable B.t.k. spores were recovered in the air in both plots up to 17 days after spraying and reached a high 8 days after spraying. Smirnoff et al, Canadian Journal of For. Res.3
100) In a study conducted in a citrus grove, B.t. persisted in the orchard for 2 years after spraying and remained toxic to lepidoptera for 2 years. Huang,Y.et al, Academy of Agricultural Sciences Chinese Journal of Biological Control, 6, 1990
101a) "Approximately 1 year after treatment, viable B.t.k. endospores were recovered from white spruce branch samples that received either Dipel or Thuricide treatment in 1981." Reardon, R.C. et al, Can. J. Entomology, Vol.116
101b) "After 5 days 40% of the B.t. was still in the air over 3,300 ft. from where it had been sprayed." Air Pollution from Pesticides and Agricultural Processes, R.E. Lee, Jr.
102) "Survival of B.t.k. in the 4 types of water (deionized, tap, lake, and sea water) indicated that it was broken down more quickly in sea water than in fresh water. A 90% reduction of B.t.k. in sea water was observed in 30 days while only a 50% reduction in distilled and tap waters was evident after 20 days. In lake water a 50% reduction of B.t.k. was achieved in approximately 50 days." "The amount of residual chlorine normally applied to a standard water purification system does not appear to be sufficient to destroy Btk." Menon, A.S. et al, Water Air Soil Pollution, Vol. 25, 1985
THE IMPACT OF B.t. ON WATER
103) Further to the study mentioned above (102) another experiment recovered viable Bti cells from the water for up to 200 days, and in the sediment for up to 270 days after application. Hoil, S.L. et al, The Environ., 11(1) 1991
104) The nitrogen in B.t. robs the water of oxygen.
"We would be concerned about the contribution f nitrogen in B.t. to the eutrophication of ligotrophic surface waters." (eutrophication=deficient in oxygen, oligotrophic=high in oxygen)
"The information on impacts of B.t. on aquatic organisms does not include impacts on aquatic insects, including adult insects which may use riparian vegetation." R. S. Gill, Environmental Specialist, California Regional Water Quality Control Board
105) "A bucket of water exposed to the aerial application contained 22,800 spores per mL of water, but this number was reduced to 7,800 spores per mL 2 months later after the water had been kept refrigerated in darkness." Impact of (B.t.) aerial treatment on non-target Organisms. Buckner et al,Report CC-X-59,Ottawa
106a) "One species of Plecoptera, (Stoneflies) Taeniopteryx nivalis, showed an average of 30 percent mortality, significantly higher than the mortality in the control, at the end of the 9-day observation period." Lethal & Sublethal Effects of B.t. on aquatic Insects in Outdoor Streams, Kreutzweiser et al, Bull.Environ.Contam.Toxicol.49 1992
106b) "..two species of stoneflies in the families Leuctridae and Taeniopterygidae were found to be susceptible to B.t.k. at field application rates (30 BIU/ha or 2-6 IU/ml) for gypsy moth." Final Environmental Impact Statement 1995, U.S. Dept of Agriculture, citing Eidt 1985; Kreutzweiser 1992 and 1993
107) "At the highest concentration of unfiltered suspension, 10 percent of the eels were dead after 96 hours." Tolerance de la Faune Marine a B.thuringiensis Alzieu et al. Bull.Inst.Peches Marit.250
108) "The application of B.t. over large areas in the forest environment may present a potential hazard to fish in lakes and streams through effects on their food organisms, most important of which are aquatic insects." Toxicity of B.t.k. to Aquatic Insects, Eidt, D.C., Canadian Entomology 117, 1985
109) "Ground application is preferred when feasible because it allows thorough coverage of host foliage while minimizing drift onto non-target habitats. Small bodies of water such as fish ponds and swimming pools are easily safeguarded by covering them with tarps." Final Environmental Impact Report (Gypsy moth), California Department of Agriculture 1992
110) Elevated drift rates of Mayfly Baetis spp. (one of the many fish food organisms) was noted after a direct B.t.k. application to an in situ stream mesocosm observation apparatus located at a study site on Vancouver Island. Limnotek Research Inc. B.C. Ministry of Forests 1992
111) "Some juvenile coho salmon died at the high dose when they were exposed for 7 days to doses ranging from 5.2 x 10 to 26.4 x 10 spores per mL." Review of B.t.k. - With Special Emphasis on the Aquatic Environment, Surgeoner, G.A. et al, 1989
112) "Exposure of Biomphalaria alexandria snails to low concentrations of Thuricide (a B.t. formulation) caused a significant decrease in both ovipository activity and size of egg masses and reduced the percentage of egg hatchability." Osman G. et al, Anz Schaedlingskd Pflanzenschutz Umweltschutz, Volume 64 (7) 1991
113) During the spraying of Vancouver and area in 1992, B.t.k. spores in Capilano Lake soared to 45 percent by the end of April, and to almost 70 percent by June 4. Greater Vancouver Water District Quality Control Annual Report 1992
114a) Mussels exposed to high concentrations of B.t.k. spores suffered 28% mortality. B.t.k. may also be toxic to earthworms and to brine shrimp. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Office of Pesticides & Toxic Substances, 1988
114b) B.t.k. adversely affected black fly Simulium vittatum and perhaps black fly Prosimulium fascum/mixtum. Eidt, D.C. 1985, Canadian Entomologist, Vol.117
The Impact of B.t. on Non-Target Lepidoptera, Beneficial Insects and Birds.
115) Non-target beneficials may be at risk to side effects of B.t.k. directly from the insecticidal spray, or indirectly due to residue contaminated foliage surfaces. The alteration of the food sources of natural enemies may also account for some of the observed detrimental effects of B.t.k. in field studies. Environmental Report & Current Status of Btk., Dr.Imre S. Otvos, Forestry Canada, March 1993
116) "As B.t. affects other species of lepidoptera, the massive spraying will affect them detrimentally and therefore the parasites and predators of the lepidoptera which (the lepidoptera) are thus liable to increase, some perhaps to outbreak proportions, as they recolonize the treated areas." Dr. Bryan P. Beirne, Professor Emeritus of Pest Management, Simon Fraser University. B.C.
117) "My primary objection to the spraying is that it uses dynamite to kill a merely alleged mosquito, killing all species of butterflies and moths in the caterpillar stage. This crazy dynamite tactic endangers every single local threatened butterfly habitat. It has obliterated in Vancouver a normally hardy and also attractive and very interesting native butterfly, Lorquin's Admiral. It may well have obliterated the Stanley Park Colony of Johnson's Hairstreak. No specimens of this butterfly have been seen in another refuge, the Lynn Valley Headwater Park, since that was sprayed in 1992. It has wiped out the Spring Azure, an attractive blue butterfly, in all except the far periphery of the attacked areas." Roger Ashton, Butterfly expert and author
118) "Further research on the impact of B.t. on non-target lepidoptera and insectivorous birds is needed considering the increasing use of the insecticide in forest management." Szuba K.J. et al, Faculty of Forestry, University of Toronto 1990
119) "Rare non-target species of lepidoptera may be ecologically at risk in large-scale pest control programs based on B.t.k. The study showed that both numbers of non-target insects over the test period and species richness were depressed for 3 years following treatment. A reduction in caterpillar abundance could negatively affect the population dynamics of some birds." Miller, J.C. American Entomol. Vol.36, 1990
120) "Use of B.t.k. should be prohibited in areas where it has the potential to drift, flow, wash or otherwise enter the habitat of any endangered / threatened species of lepidoptera or reduce the food source of any insectivorous listed species, such as the endangered least Bell's vireo (Vireo bellii pusillus)." United States Department of the Interior, August 7, 1991
121) B.t.k. can cause irritation and allergy-like symptoms in vertebrates and indirectly, birds and mammals that feed on lepidopteran species have a reduced number of prey items to eat. Bats feeding exclusively on lepidoptera could also be affected as strongly suggested by a study of the Virginia big-eared bat in West Virginia. U.S. Dept. of Agriculture, Gypsy moth management in the United States, 1995 Appendix G, 9-11
122) "The U.S.D.A. Forest Service will not spray for spruce budworm this spring on the Deschutes, Mt.Hood and Willamette National Forests. Studies have been started to learn more about the possible effects of B.t. spraying on the food sources of the (insectivorous) Townsend's big-eared bat." Media release from the United States Department of Agriculture Forest Service, 1993
123) "B.t.k. caused losses in 3 species of song birds and increased mortality and decreased growth in chicks of wild spruce grouse. B.t.k. sprayed from the air into the forest canopy, knocked down caterpillars of low shrubs and herbs up to 65% over 4 weeks." Effect of B.t.k. on Insects, Small Birds and Chicks of Spruce Grouse, Bendell, J.F. et al, Faculty of Forestry, University of Toronto 1990
124) "An operational spray of B.t.k. reduced the abundance of caterpillars of low vegetation and this in turn caused changes or declines in numbers, age structure, survival, growth, movements, and feeding habits of wildlife. If caterpillars are needed as food by a species it cannot replace this item with alternatives." Effect of B.t.k. on Song Birds, Chicks of Spruce Grouse, Masked Shrew, and Caterpillars of Low Vegetation. Bendell, J.F. et al, March 1992
125) B.t. is a potential avian toxin, in eight studies done on the effect of B.t. on birds, birds were impacted. Symptoms of effects ranged from mild to severe and included death at the 1% level. Other symptoms included emaciation, blood in gizzard, hemorrhage in gastro-intestinal tract, reduced feeding and weight gains. Reduced egg production. >From an affidavit by Jorma Jyrkkanen, Terrace, B.C. Filed in Federal Court
126) "The toxicity data reported here show that B.t.k. had a severe impact on survival of the larvae of ladybird beetles." B.t.k. killed over 23 percent of the eggs and 91 percent of the larvae of newly hatched Ladybird beetles in a period of 3 days. Impact of Pesticides on Ladybird Beetles, 1982 Olszak R., Rocz. Nauk Roln. Ser.E. Ochr.Rosl.12
127) "A mortality rate of 100% was observed after a 2-month exposure period of test earthworms to the smallest dose of Btk." Smirnoff, W.A. et al, J. Insect Pathol. Vol.3
128) "The braconid wasp suffered mortality of 39% and 100% respectively at the two higher concentrations within 14 days of feeding, as compared with 9% in the controls." Muck, 0. et al. (1981) Z. Ang. Ent. Volume 92
129) B.t.k. caused population declines in ground beetles, nematodes and predatory mites. Addison, J.A. (1993) Canadian Journal of Forest Research 23:2329-2342
130) "The spray application apparently caused a decrease in the numbers of adult males (of masked shrews) that were replaced by juveniles. Moreover, the insecticide significantly reduced the abundance of lepidopteran larvae. This suggests that the reduction in numbers of lepidopteran larvae caused increased mortality and (or) dispersal of adult males." Effects of B.t.k. on Sorex Cinereus (masked shrew) in a Jack Pine Plantation in Ontario Bellocq, M.I. et al, Canadian Journal of Zoology. Vol.70, 1992
131) "A reduction in food consumption, body weight, and egg production of hens was recorded when two formulations of B.t. was incorporated into the feed." Effect of Feeding B.t. to Caged Layers for Fly Control, Burns et al, J.Econ.Ent.Volume 54
The Impact of B.t. on Bees.
132) "Bees were harmed or killed in feeding trials though the dosages achieved were in excess of those expected in the fields. End-points other than mortality were mainly overlooked in the bees however, so that there exists the potential to affect other parameters at lower dosages, for example, feeding, growth, or honey production, posing a potential risk to bees, and to honey and to pollination of legumes and other beneficial plants." Jorma Jyrkkanen, Environmental Consultant, 1992 Affidavit filed in the Federal Court of Canada
133a) High concentrations of B.t.k. spores can be toxic to bees. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Office of Pesticides & Toxic Substances, 1988
133b) Dipel (a B.t.k. formulation) caused some toxicity to honey bees in a 1981 study. Atkins, E.L. et al (1981) Leaflet 2883, University of California.
134) "During the appeals, a suggestion was made by one of the Appellants, the Richmond Beekeepers Association, that a study hive be specifically sited in one of the treatment areas and monitored during and after the spray program. The Panel recommends that Agriculture Canada consider pursuing this suggestion." Environmental Appeal Board, April 8, 1993 Vancouver, B.C. (The study on bees was not carried out in Richmond in 1993, nor to-date, has it been done in any other spray area.)
135) "The Degroffs, a Fourth Avenue family with a large collection of iguanas and snakes occupying their living room had their property officially named a no-spray area Tuesday. A Thurston County Judge ruled that the State Department of Agriculture had no data to show that the spray program's insecticide wouldn't hurt the reptiles." The Olympian News, May 19, 1993
136) A site inspection of Victoria/Saanich after the urban aerial spraying of Foray 48B found among other things, generally lower bird populations, dead fledgling birds, many bird species gone, no more house finches, and 3 dead chickens. No honey bees from the first spray to the end of July, reduction in wasp populations, reduction in bumble bee populations, ladybird populations drastically depleted all season, drastically reduced butterfly and skipper populations and population explosions of other moth/caterpillar species outside the sprayed area. Three sprayed pond fish developed tumors. The Ecological Health Alliance, November 1994
THE EFFECT OF B.T. ON PLANTS:
It has been noted that B.t. has a burning effect on plants, particularly if sprayed on warm days.
137) "There is some concern that this insecticide would be a plant mutagen when sprayed on plants." Sharma, C.B.S.R. et al, Mutation Research, Volume 46:(19-26)
138) Report of a fifteen-foot, fifteen-year-old apple tree dying as a result of pesticide application using Bt. Washington State Department of Agriculture Case Report 54W-93, May 24, 1993
EFFECTIVE ALTERNATIVES TO B.T. SPRAYING:
There are many proven safe and effective alternatives which can be used to control the gypsy moth without resorting to the most extreme measure of all; aerial broadcasts of pesticides over urban areas.
139) Prevention - Border Inspection of Vehicles California has a Pest Exclusion Program that includes vehicle checks at 16 border inspection stations. As a result 337 moths were intercepted in 1990 and the State has been gypsy moth free since 1989. It is clear, that Agriculture Canada should be following California's example and concentrating their efforts on prevention rather than simply allowing an insect (they deem so dangerous) entry and then doing massive, aerial broadcasts of urban areas which cause great public anxiety and are financially prohibitive.
(a) Introduction of natural predators. The gypsy moth has many natural enemies in British Columbia, which include the species listed below. More could be introduced, if deemed necessary. Predators are animals which actually eat the gypsy moth and they include: Mice, Shrews, Raccoons, Skunks, Squirrels, Beetles, Spiders, Carpenter Ants and about 40-species of birds which include Chickadees, Tanagers, Steller's Jays, Robins, Vireos, Orioles, Grackles, Starlings, Blackbirds and Cuckoos. Parasites are usually insect species which consume and kill the gypsy moth by living inside it. There are over 100 known insect parasites of the egg, larval and pupal stages. Certain flies and small non-stinging wasps are examples of gypsy moth parasites.
(b) Mating Disruption - High density pheromone trapping. Traps baited with a female hormone that attracts male moths are more effective than pesticides which kill only larvae. Mass trapping kills adults. Mass trapping-only projects have been carried out successfully in many areas including Appleton, Delevan, Monana, Sheboygan and Melon in Wisconsin. No further moths are reported in these areas. Wisconsin Department of Agriculture 1991
(c) Egg hunts - Destroying Egg Masses. The Environmental Appeal Board recommended that a bounty system be considered for in-tact, in-situ egg masses. A suggestion that has to-date, been ignored by Agriculture Canada. This method has been successful in other locations including New Brunswick, where forestry and biology students, boy scouts and environmental groups search and destroy egg masses every spring. Local merchants donate prizes and provide pizza and pop for the participants.
(d) Sterile Insect Release Program.
Large numbers of laboratory reared male gypsy moth pupae are treated with gamma radiation, then allowed to mature into adults. These sterile moths are then released to mate with native (wild) females. Female moths that mate with sterile males lay infertile eggs.
(e) Tree Banding. Sticky barrier bands intercept caterpillars on their way up the tree. The tiny caterpillars will attempt to cross the sticky material, become stuck and die. The barriers are removed from the trees at the end of the caterpillar season in late June. Burlap hiding bands installed around trees will catch gypsy moth caterpillars on their way down the trees. This method is more labour intensive than the sticky tape mentioned above as the caterpillars have to be destroyed, preferably every day, by sweeping them into a container of soapy water.
(f) Fungus Routs Gypsy Moth Outbreak.
"Last summer, the fungus Entomophaga maimaiga, which efficiently checks gypsy moths in its native Japan, unexpectedly proliferated in the northeastern United States. It slaughtered gypsy moths in droves, producing their first known massive fungus-induced die-off in North America." Experiments by Insect Pathologist Dr.Ann E. Hajek of the Boyce Thompson Institute for Plant Research in Ithaca, New York showed that scientists could deliberately use the fungus in the wild to induce gypsy moth die-offs of up to 90%. Science News, August 4, 1990
B.T. IS NOT EFFECTIVE.
140) We are not satisfied with the performance of Foray 48B; because of our wet climate the residual activity is poor. Washington State Department of Agriculture, 1995 Olympia, Washington.
141) "B.t. is unreliable, one year you'll get good results with B.t. and the next year you won't." Ralph Houghton, Head of Agriculture Canada's Plant Products Division, Ottawa, April 25, 1979
142) "In some areas, we get spectacular results with B.t. but in other areas, the moth population actually increases and is even healthier." Robert H. Tichenor Jr., Head of the Gypsy Moth Section, Maryland Department of Agriculture 1984
143) (re B.t.k.) "Even among highly susceptible pests, efficacy varies from spray to spray and from year to year due to variations in climate, larval instar, and spray deposit." Kettela, E.G., Review of Pest Management, Research & Development in New Brunswick in 1989
144) "The efficacy of B.t.k. is variable among target lepidopterans; it provides excellent control of some insects like the spruce budworm and somewhat less reliable control of the gypsy moth and the Douglas-fir tussock moth." Trial, H. Jr., Operational Experiences with B.t. in the Eastern United States. Proceedings Symposium Microbial Control of Gypsy Moths, 1984
145) "Fifty-five organic vegetable growers in the U.K. were interviewed in 1987 to determine their perceptions of pest problems and how to deal with them."
"Although over half the growers use some form of curative control such as debris, pyrethrum and B.t., the majority thought they were ineffective and uneconomic." L. Peacock et al, Agric.Ecosyst.Environ.31, 1990
146) "Inconsistent efficacy is not surprising considering that B.t. has to be ingested and exhibits poor residual toxicity, features that tend to make treatment success more dependent on favourable conditions." Kees van Frankenhuyzen, et al, Canadian Entomologist 125, May/June 1993
147) "Recent published research on the development of resistance to B.t. by the diamondback moth ought to be a warning of the dangers of reliance upon B.t." Carol Waddington, Senior Entomologist, Tri Cal.
148) "Much of the B.t. resistance that has appeared in the field is thought to be due to massive crop spraying of the B.t. toxins themselves. The spraying has exposed insects to high doses and accelerated their rate of evolution into increasingly resistant breeds." Christopher Anderson, Nature, Vol.355, Feb.1992
149) "Often touted as one of the most effective weapons in biological pest control, bacteria called B.t. may have met their match." Science News, Vol.142, Sep.12, 1992
150) "Colonies of Indianmeal moth, and Almond moth reared in the laboratory on diet treated with B.t. became resistant to Bt." McGaughey, W.H. et al, J.Econ.Entom. 81 (1) 1988
151) "Reports coming from Hawaii, Florida, New York, the Philippines, Thailand, and Japan suggest the bloom is off the rose for B.t. One major plant pest-the diamondback moth-has evolved resistance to B.t. toxins, and university researchers have bred several other insects in their labs that show signs of it. Worse, no quick fixes emerged from a colloquium of researchers, environmentalists, and regulators who gathered in Washington, D.C. last week for The "B.t. Resistance Workshop" sponsored by the National Audubon Society on 21 October 1991 to look for strategies to nip the problem of B.t. resistance in the bud. The fate of B.t., attendees concluded, will depend on voluntary efforts by farmers (and others) to use B.t. sparingly and to adopt other pest management tools." Moths Take the Field Against Bio-pesticide Science, Volume 254, November 1, 1991
The U.S. Department of Agriculture recommends high density trapping for gypsy moths when there are less than 10 egg masses per acre. And, the sterile insect release method when there are less than 10 egg masses per acre. (1995 USDA FEIS supra) Why then is Agriculture Canada aerial spraying hundreds of hectares in densely populated urban areas when only a few egg masses, and in some cases no egg masses are found?
For example:
18,813 hectares in Vancouver and area were aerially sprayed in 1992. No egg masses were found. 430 hectares in Richmond were aerially sprayed in 1993. 8 egg masses were found. 120 hectares in Nanaimo were aerially sprayed in 1994. 5 egg masses were found. 120 hectares in Victoria were aerially sprayed in 1994. 1 egg mass was found.
We are calling for a full public enquiry into the moth spraying. S.T.O.P. North Vancouver July, 1995.
PART 4. Our Case Against Moth Spraying
(Canadian) Environmental Appeals Board Stops The Btk Spraying
In December 1995, Agriculture Canada applied for a pesticide use permit to ground spray 4 city blocks in Sapperton with BTK for the control of gypsy moths. The targeted area was residential and was also home to an elementary school.
Public outrage was swift and relentless. Over 90% of residents signed a petition against the spraying. Their City Council was opposed to the spraying, so was their Member of Parliament. Large "No Spraying" signs appeared in front yards, and some residents even threatened to block the streets to prevent the spray tankers from entering.
A dozen appeals were filed with the Environmental Appeal Board, including one from the Parent Teachers Association of the targeted school. (It costs $25.00 to file an appeal)
Fortunately, their efforts paid off and in April 1996 the Board cancelled the permit on the grounds that the pesticide posed a threat to human health, and that the spraying was unlikely to be effective.
In its decision the Board noted that:
1) BTK had caused health reactions in previously sprayed areas, including: "..skin rash and other immune, allergic and sensitization responses such as dry, itchy skin; red, burning eyes; dry sore throat; cough and tightness in the chest.."
2) Children are at particular risk from the effects of BTK. "With smaller weight, and developing systems, children are likely to be more susceptible for all potential health effects."
3) BTK is respirable in mammals, therefore, there is the possibility of lung injury on exposure to it.
4) According to the manufacturer, repeated exposure via inhalation can result in sensitization and allergic response.
5) Some ground spray workers suffered health reactions and remained culture positive for prolonged periods of time.
6) There have been no long-term studies done on the effects of BTK on human health.
7) The spraying is not effective. "..the evidence is weak in showing a link between reduced moth populations and BTK spraying."
8) There is no effective interception program, such as a border inspection station to prevent the insects from coming here in the first place.
For a copy of the Board's decision: Call (250) 387-3464. Fax (250) 356-9923. British Columbia residents may call 660-2421 to be connected toll free. Or write: Environmental Appeal Board P.O. Box 9425 Station Provincial Government Victoria, British Columbia. Canada. V8W 9V1
THE AFTERMATH OF THE BOARD'S DECISION
NO URBAN AREAS HAVE BEEN SPRAYED WITH BTK At the same time they applied for a permit to spray Sapperton (December 1995) Agriculture Canada applied for a permit to aerially spray a forest in Hope. So they were already in possession of this permit when the Board cancelled the Sapperton spraying. It was not revoked because no-one in Hope had appealed the permit.
In May 1996 the Hope spraying went ahead. However, there were only a few houses located in the area, and the spray plane pilot was instructed by Agriculture Canada officials to avoid spraying them. (Hope Standard) To-date, Agriculture Canada has not applied for any more permits to spray BTK for gypsy moths.
This may be confirmed by calling the Pesticide Control Branch: British Columbia Ministry of the Environment: Telephone (604) 582-5200. Fax (604) 660-8926.
OPPOSITION FROM OTHER AREAS SPRAYED WITH BTK
Following the Board's decision, BTK was aerially sprayed over forests in Nova Scotia and Newfoundland amid tremendous public protest. Although there were no residences for miles, people were afraid the pesticide would leach into their water supply.
One of the opponents of the spraying explained that when the area was sprayed with BTK in 1979, the water supply was sprayed by mistake. "Now my brother has Hodgkin's Disease and my mother has breast cancer." (Chronicle-Herald, June 15, 1996.)
Middle River, Nova Scotia is a tiny community with a population of only 900 residents. Yet, 600 people signed a petition against the spraying, 150 people attended a concerned resident's meeting, and 60 residents ranging in age from 2 months to 90 years, picketed in front of the government building. Some residents even camped out in the forest to try and stop or disrupt the spraying.
"Residents feel government is ignoring evidence used to stop an intended BTK spray in Vancouver." (The Inverness Oran, Volume 21, No. 14, June 1996.)
Auckland, New Zealand residents armed with the Board's decision are seeking an injunction, to stop BTK spraying. The spraying is causing a myriad of health problems and a hundred angry residents packed a recent meeting demanding that it be stopped. In the words of one irate resident "It's like dropping an atomic bomb to kill a sniper." (N. Z. Herald, April 4,1997.)
HEALTH CANADA TAKES OVER PESTICIDE REGULATION FROM AGRICULTURE CANADA -IT IS NOW ILLEGAL TO SAY THAT A PESTICIDE IS "ORGANIC".
Since the registering of pesticides was taken over by Health Canada some important changes have been made. It is now illegal to claim that a pesticide is "natural," "organic" or "safe." And, the terms "biological" and "biodegradable" cannot be used without qualification. The Regulatory Directive 96-02, dated March 15, 1996 further states: "Vague and potentially misleading statements such as "environmentally friendly," "green," or "ozone friendly" must not be used as they cannot clearly indicate a specific benefit." (For copies of the Directive call the Pest Management Regulatory Agency of Health Canada at 1-800-267-6315.)
EPA PROTECTS WORKERS FROM BTK PESTICIDES. WORKERS CANNOT ENTER AN AREA SPRAYED WITH BTK FOR AT LEAST 4 HOURS.
On May 3, 1995, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) established a Worker Protection Standard Restricted Entry Interval of 4 hours for BTK pesticides. (From EPA Pesticide Regulation (PR) NOTICE 95-3)
IT IS A VIOLATION OF FEDERAL LAW TO STATE THAT A PESTICIDE IS SAFE WHEN USED AS DIRECTED.
According to the American Cancer Society, "It is a violation of federal law to state that the use of pesticides is safe when used as directed."
"EPA registration is not a consumer product safety program. It is not intended to determine the safety of the pesticide, but rather to indicate it will kill a targeted pest."
"No one can assure your safety when using pesticides. Most pesticides are associated with some risk to human health or the environment."
"A National Cancer Institute study indicated that children are as much as six times more likely to get childhood leukaemia when pesticides are used in the home and garden."
"According to a report in the American Journal of Epidemiology, more children with brain tumors and other cancers were found to have had exposure to insecticides than children without cancer."
The above excerpts were taken from "What you should know about pesticides.", published by the Erie County Unit of the American Cancer Society.
A SEVERE ALLERGIC REACTION FOLLOWING BTK SPRAYING
When North Carolina was sprayed with Foray 48B in 1994, "an unreasonable adverse effect incident" was reported to EPA. A resident whose home was sprayed experienced burning, itching and swelling of her eyes and a red, itching rash developed on her neck and face. She took Benedryl to relieve her symptoms.
The next morning when she had not improved she went to the emergency room at New Hanover Regional Medical Center. The attending physician indicated that she had had a severe allergic reaction. She was treated by I.V., given medication, and sent home. A dermatologist was consulted, and for a time she was taking steroids. Weeks later she was still taking an antihistamine every few hours.
She has not been outside in her yard since her first reaction and has avoided the sun. She continues to have the rash. This individual has never experienced these symptoms before and has no known allergies. (From a Freedom of Information Request to EPA)
FIVE YEARS OF HEALTH PROBLEMS IN VANCOUVER ATTRIBUTED TO MASSIVE BTK SPRAYING OF 1992.
"And the unusually high incidence of allergy-related health complaints in the Vancouver area during the past five years has been linked by some to the massive BTK spraying of 1992." ("Not just cars," T.Keswick, Burnaby Now, March 30, 1997)
NOSEBLEEDS
During the aerial BTK spraying of Vancouver in 1992, a 10 per cent sample of Emergency Department visits found 1,839 patients with discharges from eyes or respiratory tract, 1,352 with respiratory problems, 100 with rashes, 60 with unexplained allergic reactions and 119 with nosebleeds. It is important to remember, that the potential exists for 10 times these numbers - 1,190 nosebleeds. etc. (From a Health Study done on the effects of the spraying by Noble, Riben and Cook, University of British Columbia, 1992.)
THE FUTILITY OF BTK SPRAYING
If the gypsy moth (or any other insect) finds conditions under which it can thrive and multiply, no amount of spraying will prevent it from doing so. The spraying will only damage the eco system and hurt people.
"They've tried to eradicate the gypsy moth 24 times in California, what it tells us is that eradication doesn't work." (Professor Judith Myers, Entomologist, Associate Dean of Science, University of British Columbia)
THE DESTRUCTIVENESS OF BTK SPRAYING
"Gypsy moths have been found in the lower mainland of B.C. and a government plan to spray BT is being opposed by citizens. Such stories are invariably presented as gypsy moths posing a severe threat to trees versus the hazard of spraying to human health. We don't hear whether spraying can ever eliminate an exotic arrival once it has a toehold. Perhaps one in a thousand insect species is a nuisance to human beings, yet we undertake massive programs that will impact all insects just to get at the tiny fraction that we don't want. Is that sensible?" (Dr. David Suzuki, The Montreal Gazette, March 14, 1992)
WHERE HAVE ALL THE BUTTERFLIES GONE? BTK HAS A DEVASTATING EFFECT ON NON-TARGET LEPIDOPTERA
Following a BTK aerial spraying of the Warm Springs Indian Reservation (Oregon) in 1993, it was found that: "..species richness was reduced by 67%, numbers of caterpillars were reduced by 72-81%, and live caterpillar mass was reduced by 86-88%." Dr. Jeffrey C. Miller, Department of Entomology, Oregon State University
THE EFFECTIVENESS OF BTK IS QUESTIONED
"We knew from all past experience that B.t. was a kind of haphazard, useless material for eradication - you just couldn't count on it. Its efficacy was highly variable, so we just couldn't recommend it to the Plant Quarantine Division staff." Dr. Bryan Frazer, entomologist, Agriculture Canada, speaking of the 1978 gypsy moth finds in Vancouver, from "Gaining Support for B.C.'s Gypsy Moth Wars," Alan Cramm, 1989)
SAFE, NON PESTICIDE METHODS: THE SOLUTION TO INSECT CONTROL
"The B.C. fruit industry appears to be winning the battle with the destructive codling moth infesting apple and pear orchards throughout the Okanogan. A year-end review of the sterile insect release program indicates the wild codling moth population has dropped to record lows, in the south Okanogan, where the program has been operating for three years.
The program involves the release of millions of sterile moths to mate unsuccessfully with their wild counterparts, thus eliminating the need to spray insecticide against the pest. 79 percent of 600 surveyed orchards suffered no codling moth damage this year. This compares to 42 percent in the same orchards in 1995." (Fruit Industry winning moth battle, Vancouver Sun, October 25, 1996)
SOME MISCELLANEOUS FOOD FOR THOUGHT
"You have to ask if that handful of gypsy moths found in Vancouver is worth all the planes and helicopters dumping BTK on citizens."
"Dropping anything on a population involuntarily is a very big thing. If you're going to do that, you'd better have the justification." (Vancouver Medical Health Officer, Dr. John Blatherwick, "Proposed aerial spraying needs grounding, health officer says" Vancouver Sun January 13, 1993.)
"Opponents of aerial spraying plan to use tethered balloons today to "obstruct" attempts to drop pesticide over Saanich and Victoria. The spraying is the first of three applications of the pesticide BTK." (Anti-sprayers use balloons in skirmish, Times-Colonist, April 21,1994.)
In an interview with The Richmond Review on February 28, 1993, Richmond M.L.A. Doug Symons challenged the notion put forward by Agriculture Canada that spraying can stop gypsy moths from establishing themselves. "Symons doesn't like Agriculture Canada's sales pitch. "I've got a video at home about how much worse the Asian variety is than the European one, from last year when they wanted to spray for the Asian moth. Now, it's a real horror story about the European one," he said, adding that he believes the real reason for the spray program is concern from the forestry industry."
In an article dated November 6, 1992, North Shore News columnist Geoff Tobiasson also questioned the validity of the spray program: "It is interesting to note that the SWAT team from the department of agriculture are using absence of Asian gypsy moths discovered in traps as a proclamation of success. At the same time they are declaring the large numbers of its European cousin they found as justification to renew their attack next year. I just can't help wondering how the European moths managed to evade the magnificent campaign touted to have knocked off the Asians. This is especially discomforting when the folks raising the alarm are the only ones who manage to earn a living out of the whole business."
In 1957, a group of Long Island, N.Y. residents went to court to try and stop an aerial spraying for gypsy moths. But unfortunately, government officials had convinced the judge that the pesticide was harmless, and the spraying went ahead on schedule. It was DDT in fuel oil! The spraying killed untold numbers of birds, beneficial insects and fish, wiped out vegetable crops, contaminated dairy milk, ruined beekeepers and killed a champion race horse. We now know, that the long term effects of exposure to DDT is cancer of the pancreas. (The American Cancer Society)
Prepared by Dianne Wharton.
S.T.O.P. (Canada) Box 37007, 2930 Lonsdale Avenue, North Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. V7N 4M0 Telephone & Fax (604) 980-1860.
Insecticides were discovered while developing chemical warfare agents in WW2. They were proven to be lethal to insects while searching for killing agents for man. Cide = to kill. Exposure to minute amounts of these synthetic, neurotoxic chemicals can cause debilitating health problems.
RATES OF ABSORPTION OF PESTICIDES INTO THE HUMAN BODY.
Pesticides are absorbed through different parts of the body at different rates. The illustration below shows the relative rates of absorption for the insecticide parathion. (From Marer, 1988.)