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Lambda-cyhalothrin to be extensively monitored in Rice this year

Lambda-cyhalothrin to be extensively monitored in Rice this year

We start monitoring Lambda-cyhalothrin (Warrior, Lambda-cy, Silencer, etc.) in the water column plus sediment sampling this year. The sampling takes place at the drain sites we use for thiobencarb monitoring. This will be our first experience with compliance to the Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) requirements. The TMDL is a forever monitoring program and we anticipate positive results leading to future modifications. We have never had an issue with our long history monitoring the pyrethroid insecticides. However, we have no ability to correlate the past results with the newer and much lower analytical methods.

What does this mean to growers and applicators in rice country?

Our industry does a great job applying pyrethroids for early season pest control. The majority of applications are boarder treatments to target the area of the field early season insect pests thrive. We need to be aware of all field boundaries when making boarder treatments. Fields next to a drain can adjust the application to cover more of the field rather than the edge of the boarder. 

What is a TMDL?

Total Maximum Daily Load is a regulatory term from the U.S. Clean Water Act. The TMDL defines a plan for restoring impaired waters by identifying the maximum amount of “pollutant” the water body receives while still meeting water quality standards. 

What are 303(d) listed water bodies?

Under the U.S. Clean Water Act, this is the list of impaired or threatened waters (streams, rivers, segments, lakes, etc.) that identify a pollutant as causing the impairment. The list is updated every two year. The pyrethroid TMDL lists 14 waterbodies: nine from municipal storm water and five from agricultural discharge in the Central Valley. 

List of pyrethroid insecticides

Pyrethroid is the class of insecticide that includes the active ingredients: Bifenthrin, Cyfluthrin, Cypermethrin, Esfenvalerate, Lambda-cyhalothrin and Permethrin. The regulation is per active ingredient with no relation to the labeled name. We have approval to specifically monitor Lambda-cyhalothrin based on usage data to rice fields.

For more information, contact the CRC’s Industry Affairs Manager Roberta Firoved at rfiroved@calrice.org or (916) 206-5039.

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California Warehouse Association – Foreign Materials Prevention
Industry News •

California Warehouse Association – Foreign Materials Prevention

The California Warehouse Association (CWA) has shared the following informational letter and best practices flyer:

As the new harvest season approaches, we hope this letter finds you well. This letter is a friendly reminder about the importance of maintaining the highest standards in keeping foreign materials out of trucks and bins. 

Our collective efforts to ensure purity and quality of the rice we handle are crucial not only for the success of our individual operations, but also for upholding the reputation of the entire California rice industry. Contaminants and foreign materials can compromise the quality of our product, lead to costly issues down the line, and impact our relationships with customers and partners. 

Here are a few best practices to keep in mind: 

1. Regular Inspections: Implement routine checks to ensure that all trucks and bins are clean and free from any residual materials before loading. A thorough inspection can help prevent cross-contamination. 

2. Training and Awareness: Ensure that all staff involved in the handling and transportation of rice are well-trained on procedures for maintaining cleanliness and avoiding contamination. 

3. Clear Protocols: Maintain clear and effective protocols for addressing any issues that arise, and make sure these protocols are communicated and followed consistently. 

4. Maintenance: Regularly maintain and clean all equipment and facilities used in the handling and storage of rice to prevent contamination. 

Our shared commitment to these practices will not only help us maintain the high standards of our product but also contribute to a smoother and more efficient harvest season. We ask that you share these reminders with your growers and farm bins. A one-page flyer is included with this letter that can be easily distributed. The flyer can be downloaded here. 

Thank you for your attention to this important matter, and for your ongoing dedication to the quality of California’s rice industry. 

If you have any questions or need further assistance, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Wishing you a successful and bountiful harvest season!

Drew Becker 
CWA President

For more information please contact the California Warehouse Association at (916) 441-1149 or email brooke@agamsi.com.