REMINDER

In response to a troubling trend of poisonings on the Eastern Shore, the Maryland Department of Agriculture is reminding all farmers, applicators, and retailers that the use and sale of carbofuran (commonly known as Furadan) is ILLEGAL under state and federal law. Violations of Maryland’s Pesticide Applicator Law are subject to a fine of up to $25,000 and/or prison. Violators may also be subject to further penalties from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

On December 31, 2009, the EPA revoked all food tolerances for the pesticide carbofuran, equating to a ban of the product. While it is not illegal to possess an unregistered or banned pesticide, it must be stored in compliance with state regulations and may not be used, sold or traded. We urge any individual in possession of carbofuran to responsibly dispose of the pesticide immediately.

For directions on proper disposal of pesticides, contact the Department’s Pesticide Regulation Section at 410-841-5710 or pest.reg@maryland.gov.

The Maryland Department of Natural Resources Police and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) are investigating recent carbofuran poisoning events in Kent and Talbot counties that have killed at least seven bald eagles and one horned owl. These are the latest in a string of similar incidents dating back to February 2016, when 13 bald eagles were poisoned under similar circumstances in Caroline County.

The department urges anyone with relevant and specific information to come forward. USFWS has offered a reward of up to $10,000 to eligible individuals for information that furthers this investigation.

Citizens who know about illegal fishing and hunting activities as well as the illegal killing of wildlife can make an anonymous report, 24/7, to Maryland Wildlife Crime Stoppers by calling or texting, 443-433-4112, email mwc.dnr@maryland.gov, or report violations using DNR’s free mobile app.

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This service is provided to you at no charge by Maryland Department of Agriculture.