Greenfield seeks advanced notices for community regarding pesticide application

GREENFIELD, Calif. (KION) In a 4-0 vote, Greenfield City council passed a resolution asking the ag commissioner to make public all of the notices of intent they approve.

The city would like these notices to allow enough time for families to take precautionary measures such as closing windows, doors and remaining indoors.

“We deserve to know what's being sprayed and at what time,” said Councilwoman Yanely Martinez. “It's up to me as a mother, as a teacher, community leader to say okay, I'm keeping my family inside today. Were not going to go outdoors, I'm going to close my windows.”

Certain pesticides are considered restricted because they are more toxic than other pesticides. Currently, companies must only notify workers and obtain permission from the agricultural commissioner.

Hektor Calderon, the organizer for Safe Ag Safe Schools in Monterey and Santa Cruz County said, "the most highly affected by these pesticides are mainly children and older folks who already have pre-existing illnesses."

This is not the first time community leaders request something like this. In fact, Monterey County had a pilot program in which they notified North Monterey County families about the application of these pesticides. But, only five people registered. According to Agriculture Commissioner, Henry Gonzales, it is why they decided not to extend the program.

“It is a matter that the state of California has to decide if it wants this change,” said Gonzales. “It is not appropriate for an agricultural commissioner to do so."

But Hektor Calderon assured that Gonzales can do something about it.

"We don't need legislation from our senators or assembly members to have him do his job."