Tough stance on Roundup

Roundup is one of the most successful brands to ever kill a weed. But environmental attitudes and regulations are sprouting unfavorably for the Monsanto product.

At issue are the glyphosates pesticides contained in Roundup products and certain other pesticides.

In Fairfax, California, Mayor Barbara Coler wrote Augie Venezia, president of Fairfax Lumber & Hardware, requested that the store stop selling glyphosates pesticides. She pointed to the recent decision by the World Health Organization to designate glyphosates as a “probable human carcinogen.” She also pointed to the state’s evaluation of the risks of the products.

“I am writing on behalf of the Fairfax Town Council to request your continued and renewed support for phasing out products, which may be harmful to public health, wildlife or the environment or pose a risk to public safety,” she wrote in a letter dated Aug. 18. “To that end, we are requesting that you cease sale of glyphosates pesticides.”

Yesterday, HBSDealer reported on the decision by the California EPA to begin the process by which glyphosates pesticides would be labeled as carcinogenic.

Monsanto has an exclusive Roundup marketing and distribution agreement with Scotts-MiracleGro.

Monsanto said it continues to sell glyphosate-based products in California, and elsewhere. In an e-mail to HBSDealer, the company wrote: "Glyphosate is a valuable tool for growers and other users in California and around the world. We are committed to ensuring that these products remaion available for our customers in California."