Many take for granted the products that produce healthy lawns and gardens

Washington D.C. – April 4, 2007 – How many among us can honestly say they don’t take the time to admire the beauty of a budding dogwood or a blossoming flower during this time of year? Spring often reminds people of the world’s natural appeal, but according to Allen James, president of RISE (Responsible Industry for a Sound Environment) ® most take it for granted without considering what is behind the magic.

There is a great disconnect in the minds of most people on how healthy turf and ornamentals in lawns, golf courses, athletic fields and public parks in every city and town ever come to be. The average person doesn’t contemplate the countless benefits that lawn and garden care products provide on a daily basis, but the shape of our landscape would be drastically different without their availability.

“Pesticide and fertilizer technology is one of the most underappreciated aspects of the society we live in today,” said James with RISE, a national trade association promoting the safe and responsible use of specialty pesticides and fertilizers. “Spring time clearly demonstrates the advantages of these products in a pronounced and visible way.”

The lawns and natural areas on which America’s children play and grow don’t become insect- and weed-free by themselves. Stinging bugs, allergen-producing plants and disease-carrying fleas and ticks pose a very real threat to public health and can be very costly if left unchecked. A host of tools are needed to protect pets, yards and families from these dangers; lawn care and pesticide products are just part of the solution.

“The real benefit of these commodities is they provide people with a choice,” James said. “Every situation is unique, and the availability of a variety of options allows each person to select the tools that will work and provide the best results for them.”

When used according to label directions, pesticides are not a threat to people, pets or the environment. The specific pests they control, however, certainly qualify as threats to both health and the environment. Pesticides are tools that enhance people’s ability to live their lives, just like the cleaner used on the dinner table or the fuel that goes in the car. Each product on the market is subject to a testing process that averages between 8 to 10 years with expenses upwards of $180 million, often even more intensive than the rigors pharmaceutical drugs must face for approval. The United States Environmental Protection Agency determines theses tests necessary to assure the products meet the federal safety standard – the highest in the world.

Pesticides and fertilizers are often given a bad reputation and slandered by those who don’t take the time to understand them and fail to look at the facts. “These products are certainly not the complete answer to the many pest problems Americans face on a daily basis, but they are an integral part of the solution,” James said.

No one ever reminisces about running their bare feet through thistles and chickweed instead of cool grass. Nobody ever stops to smell the dandelions. Pesticides help provide the beauty we have all come to associate with the beginning of spring, and are one of the important tools that keep lawns, landscapes and green spaces healthy for everyone’s enjoyment.

RISE (Responsible Industry for a Sound Environment)® is a national not-for-profit trade association representing producers and suppliers of specialty pesticides and fertilizers. Established in 1991, RISE serves as a resource and advocate on pesticides and fertilizers and provides current and accurate information on issues and research affecting the industry. The association also monitors legislative and regulatory issues in Washington, D.C., and in the states.

For more information, contact Karen Reardon, Director Communications and Public Relations, (202) 872-3893.

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