The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has issued the final 2026 Pesticide General Permit (2026 PGP), which will be effective from October 31, 2026, and expire on October 30, 2031. This permit replaces the existing 2021 PGP and authorizes certain discharges from pesticide applications into U.S. waters, following specific conditions. The permit applies nationwide where the EPA has authority and retains most of the previous rules but includes some updates and clarifications. It reflects input from tribal consultations and public comments, yet the EPA anticipates minimal additional cost for permit holders under the new requirements.
Simple Explanation
The EPA has made a new rule about how people can use pesticides near water, starting in 2026. This rule is a bit like a set of safe instructions to make sure the water stays clean, and it mostly keeps the old rules the same but adds some new details.