EPA Pesticide & Herbicide Analysis: Environmental Monitoring & Contamination

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has recommended methods for determining the concentrations of pesticides and herbicides in the environment. These analyses are used to determine the toxicity of a chemical in the laboratory and to identify areas of contamination.

Importance of Analyses

• Pesticide and herbicide analyses are conducted to determine if concentrations exceed the maximum allowable levels and to identify which compounds, if any, are present in a certain location or organism.

Types of Samples

• Pesticide and herbicide analyses are primarily conducted using soil, water and plant and animal tissues.

Analytical Methods

• Analyses are primarily conducted using gas chromatography (GC), liquid chromatography with mass spectrometry (LS/MS) or high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC).

Applications

• Analyses are performed in conjunction with tests to determine how lethal a chemical is to various plants and animals. Results from these laboratory experiments allow the EPA to safely regulate pesticide and herbicide use.

Regulation

• Regulating pesticides and herbicides ensures that the maximum benefit is obtained from these chemicals, while simultaneously minimizing environmental pollution. Continued monitoring and laboratory analysis can ensure that these chemicals are properly used.