Pesticide product labels will begin having new language for endangered species protections as new active ingredients are registered and as existing products are re-registered. There are two major things to look for on the label:

• There will be a statement requiring the user to access the Bulletins Live! Two web map to search for a combination of their application site location(s), product registration number, and month of application. This must be done within 6 months prior to the application. Follow the directions shown on the left side of that page. Multiple products can be selected by typing or pasting the registration number, then selecting the product from the choices that pop up. Move and zoom the map as needed so that your application area takes up most of the screen. When the “Printable Bulletin” button is green, you should print or save the bulletin as documentation, even if there are no restrictions for your product at your application site. If there are restrictions listed for your product/site/month of application, follow those directions for drift reduction and/or runoff/erosion reduction. The Bulletin may direct you to access the Mitigation Menu for how to calculate mitigation points for runoff/erosion reduction credit. One must follow whichever restrictions require the most points - either those on the Bulletin or those on the label. The Mitigation Menu is explained below.
• There may be drift reduction and runoff/erosion reduction language on the label for application sites near “habitat.” Drift reduction measures will be listed on the label. Runoff/erosion reduction mitigation will need to meet a set number of points. There are options for meeting those points in the Mitigation Menu. One should walk through the steps of the Mitigation Menu. Using the Mitigation calculator is highly recommended for each application site, if needed. Using the calculator not only can be used as documentation of compliance, but it is counted as “mitigation tracking” which also can be used as credit for meeting the points required. The mitigation credits/points are divided into the following sections:
• General rainfall/runoff vulnerability generated by the county of the site;
• Field characteristics such as slope and soil type;
• In-field mitigation measures and field-adjacent measures – credit is given for many of the conservation practices that may already be in place;
• Application parameters including rate reduction and application area reduction, among others.

It will take time to become familiar with the new language and new tools. NDA encourages all applicators to review this information and practice ahead of time as there may be a need to request help from a friend or advisor familiar with the process.