The Issue
In 2008, the Integrated Pest Management (IPM) program for the County of Marin was undergoing a rewrite. Many of its important provisions were threatened. Serious violations of the law whereby carcinogens were sprayed repeatedly in parks and other areas where children played were also uncovered. In response, Marin County adopted a revised IPM ordinance in 2009.
Our Position
Moms Advocating Sustainability (MOMAS) met frequently with County Supervisors and staff to update them about the most current science linking exposure to pesticides – even at very small doses – to serious chronic illnesses. We organized, wrote letters, made phone calls and alerted the press. Ultimately, we worked closely with Marin County staff to help develop and adopt some of the most health-oriented pesticide laws in the country. There are so many great aspects of our County’s award winning program that it is now a model for other cities and counties. As parents, it is wonderful to know that our County playgrounds, picnic areas and turf/grass are maintained as “pesticide free zones” and our bike and multi-use paths are “organically maintained.”
Learn More
We now have full and accurate reporting about pesticides used on County property. Learn more at the Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Program website. You can also read the Pacific Sun story about how we achieved this victory.