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Table Of Contents
- What’s the Problem With Paraquat?
- Paraquat Alternatives
- Do American Farmers Still Use Paraquat?
- Is Diquat Safer Than Paraquat?
- What Does Paraquat Do to Humans and Animals?
- Which U.S. States Use the Most Paraquat?
- How Do I Get Rid of Weeds in My Yard Permanently?
- Does Vinegar Kill Weeds Permanently?
- FAQs
- Get a Free Case Review With Our Attorneys
What’s the Problem With Paraquat?
According to the Pesticide Action Network [1], “Paraquat is the most highly acutely toxic herbicide to be marketed over the last 60 years”. Additionally, there are dozens of different species of weeds that have become resistant to paraquat, suggesting that the effectiveness of the weed killer is being eroded over time.
There are numerous highly effective alternatives to paraquat that are being used by many nations, none of which have any significant pesticide/herbicide suicide rate.
Paraquat Alternatives
Labeled Crops for Postemergence Row Middles Herbicides
| WSSA Group | Product Name | Asparagus | Strawberry | Cucumbers | Pumpkin, winter, and summer squash | Cantaloupe | Watermelon | Eggplant | Pepper | Tomato |
| 2 | League | – | – | – | – | YES | YES | – | YES | YES |
| Sandra 75 DF | YES | – | YES | YES | YES | YES | – | YES | YES | |
| Solida 25DF | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | YES | |
| 4 | Spur / Stinger 3A | YES1 | YES2 | – | – | – | – | – | – | – |
| Weedar 64 | YES | YES | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | |
| 5 | Metribuzin 75DF | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | YES |
| 7 | Lorex 50DF | YES | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – |
| 14 | Aim EC | YES | YES | YES | YES | YES | YES | YES | YES | YES |
| Reflex 2SL | – | – | – | YES3,4 | – | YES3 | – | – | – | |
| 22 | Regione | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | YES5 |
| 27 | Callisto | YES | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – |
Do American Farmers Still Use Paraquat?
Yes. Paraquat has been used commercially in the United States since the early 1960s. The EPA estimates that American farmers use more than 8 billion pounds of paraquat annually.
Is Diquat Safer Than Paraquat?
Diquat has been found to be significantly less damaging to the skin than paraquat; however, irritant effects may appear following dermal contamination with the concentrate.
What Does Paraquat Do to Humans and Animals?
When ingestion occurs by humans and animals either accidentally or intentionally, paraquat accumulates in the lungs, resulting in the production of oxygen-free radicals, which causes membrane damage and cell death.
Which U.S. States Use the Most Paraquat?
Paraquat is not used in equal amounts by farmers in each state and, consequently, there are certain states where the use of paraquat weed killers is much greater. Approximately 3 pounds of paraquat are used per square mile in the following U.S. states:
- California
- Texas
- South Dakota
- Nebraska
- Kansas
- Iowa
- Arkansas
- Illinois
- Indiana
- Mississippi
- Georgia
- North Carolina
How Do I Get Rid of Weeds in My Yard Permanently?
Using bleach can kill weeds permanently. Apply one cup of undiluted bleach to areas where weeds grow. Wait until the weeds turn brown before pulling them out of the ground. Run water around the area to flush the bleach, especially if you are trying to grow plants or grass in that area.
Does Vinegar Kill Weeds Permanently?
Vinegar can kill weeds permanently, especially when used together with dish soap. Dish soap, vinegar, and a spray bottle are all you need for making your own natural weed killer. The acetic acid in vinegar sucks out the water from the weed, which dries it up and kills it.
FAQs
How can farmers reduce the risks associated with Paraquat use?
Farmers can reduce risks by using protective gear, following safety guidelines, and exploring alternative weed control methods.
Is Paraquat banned in other countries?
Yes, Paraquat is banned in several countries due to its high toxicity and health risks. These bans aim to protect public health and the environment.
What are the long-term health effects of Paraquat exposure?
Long-term effects can include respiratory issues, kidney damage, and neurological disorders such as Parkinson’s disease.
See all related toxic tort lawsuits our attorneys have covered.
Get a Free Case Review With Our Attorneys
Paraquat is a dangerous herbicide that’s available under several brands and manufactured by many corporations in the US.
If you or your loved one have been exposed to paraquat, you should file a lawsuit.
Schmidt & Clark, LLP lawyers have experience dealing with lawsuits against large organizations. We can help you get the damages you deserve and have an easier life after paraquat exposure.