Weed killer not harmful to pets if used properly

Dear Editor:

Regarding the Aug. 15 letter to the editor “Your green grass isn’t worth my pets’ lives,” I would like to share the findings of a science-based evaluation undertaken by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

In December 2017, the EPA released the Occupational and Residential Exposure Assessment for the herbicide 2,4-D. In publishing its assessment, the agency determined 2,4-D is acceptable for use when label directions are followed.

With specific regard to concerns relating to pets, multiple studies, including a 1999 study conducted at the School of Veterinary Medicine at Michigan State University, have concluded there is no correlation between 2,4-D and canine malignant lymphoma (CLM). Regulatory decisions around the world confirm 2,4-D is not carcinogenic to mammals, including dogs.

Residents of the Twin Ponds development in Kingston should be proud of how they maintain their yards and the sense of satisfaction and calm a well-managed green space brings. And in using 2,4-Dbased products to protect their yards, they can be assured the regulator tasked with protecting their health, and that of their families and pets, has continuously considered the most current information.

Readers who seek more information may visit the website www.24d.org, where a multitude of government reviews, scientific studies and background can be found.

Lindsay Thompson

Raleigh, N.C. The writer is the executive director of the Industry Task Force II on 2,4-D Research Data.