pesticides used. (Because Virginia requires very little record-keeping, exact

pesticides used. (Because Virginia requires very little record-keeping, exact figures on pesticide use are impossible to obtain. An estimated 6.5 million pounds of active ingredients are thought to be used in Virginia annually, with nearly 75 percent devoted to agriculture).

• State licensing of large businesses that sell, store or distribute large quantities of pesticides, which would help ensure appropriate and safe application, proper storage and adequate record keeping of pesticides.

• Registration procedures which would guarantee that the 9,470 chemical compounds registered for use as pesticides in Virginia have been adequately tested and found safe for local conditions.

• Sufficient training of persons who apply large quantities of pesticides, and verification of their competence.

• Enforcement options needed to protect environmental quality and human health, including protection of consumers against disreputable pest control operators.

• Establishment of consumeroriented public information and education programs to help encourage the use of alternative controls and prevent misuse of chemicals.

• Strict monitoring, to prevent the contamination of ground water and destruction of w ildlife.

• Research to find new, less toxic and more effective pest controls.

Virginia clearly needs to do a better job of pesticide management. Recommendations detailed in the Council on the Environment’s report, Pesticide Management in Virginia, are designed to ensure public safety and environmental protection while allowing farmers, gardeners, and homeowners to continue using products they depend on. If implemented, these recommendations will elevate Virginia’s program to one of the best in the nation.

Mr. Bruaddus was chairman of the Virginia Council on the Environment's pesticide subcommittee. He served as state attorney general from 1985 to 1986.