b'New Strategies for MitigatingOff-Site Pesticide Movement in WaterCould innovative systems, products and resources developed in Europe provide solutions for Canadian farmers?BY: MELANIE EPPWHEN THE PESTICIDE MANAGEMENT Regulatory Agency (PMRA) announced its proposed special review of clothianidin and thiamethoxam to assess their risks to aquatic invertebrates in November 2016, many in the potato industry were surprised. And while Canadas potato producers are already doing a good job in terms of implementing best management practices for off-site pesticide movement, the announcement serves as a reminder the industry must continue to seek out improve-ments. Formed in the wake of the announcement, a multi-stakeholder neonic group found solutions abroad. PMRAS PROPOSED SPECIAL REVIEW DECISIONHealth Canada is currently consulting Canadians on its proposed special review decision of the neonicotinoid pesticide thiamethoxam following a risk assessment to aquatic invertebrates. According to PMRA, thiamethoxam is currently found in 18 agricultural end-use products, including potato seed piece treatment and in-furrow application.The special review was initiated on Nov. 23, 2016. At that time, PMRA found data indicating clothianidin and thiamethoxam were being foundAgrotops Thomasin a few water monitoring sites at concentrationsLudwig showcased the and frequencies in aquatic environments thatcompanys award-winning could pose a risk to aquatic invertebrates. Basedtechnology, easyFlow,on available information at the time, the agencyat the Agritechnica 2017 trade fair in Hanover, decided it warranted further assessment. Germany. EasyFlow won a When Tracy Shinners-Carnelley, vice-presidentsilver innovation award.of research and quality at Peak of the Market, a fresh market grower co-operative based in Manito-ba, first heard PMRAs decision on clothianidin and thiamethoxam, she was surprised. 50 SPUDSMART.COM FALL 2019'