PMRA Final Decision on chlorothalonil:  Summary For Turf Use

Professor, Environmental Sciences

University of Guelph

The commonly used fungicide, chlorothalonil, found in a large variety of turf fungicides, has been undergoing review by the Canadian Government. The Health Canada Pest Management Regulatory Agency (PMRA) just recently issued a final re-evaluation decision on chlorothalonil (RVD2018-11, Chlorothalonil and Its Associated End-use Products for Agricultural and Turf Uses). A summary can be found here [1]  

Contrary to initial reports, there are turf uses remaining on the label. For turf snow molds, a single application per year will be permitted, containing up to 12 kg a.i./ha or 120 grams per 100 square meters (or about 4 ounces per thousand square feet of active ingredient). For turf diseases during other seasons, there will be up to two permitted applications at a minimum 14 day interval, with up to 9.5 kg a.i./ha or 95 grams per 100 square meters per application on golf courses. For sod farms, there are also two permitted applications, but at 7 day intervals with up to 4.8 kg a.i./ha or 48 grams per 100 square meters. Re-entry into treated sites can occur when the sprays have dried.

Companies have 24 months to change their labels on products containing chlorothalonil to reflect these requirements.

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For more information please contact your local or national professional association, the PMRA, or fill out an online inquiry on the GTI website and we will ensure your questions and concerns are addressed.