NOTICE
The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife intends to rehabilitate several un-named ponds in the Potholes Wildlife Area (T.19N, R.27E, Sections 33, 35, and 36; T.19N, R.28E, Section 31) in Grant County during the weeks of September 24 or October 1, 2006.
The pesticide to be used is an organic, natural compound called rotenone. The pesticide is a liquid formulation of 5% active ingredient. The targeted total concentration of rotenone in the water is less than or equal to 4 parts per million.
This rotenone application is being done to eradicate fish and bullfrog tadpoles. Fish and bullfrogs prey upon and/or compete with Northern Leopard Frogs, a state endangered species, that occurs in the treatment area. Bullfrogs are an introduced non-native species that is a serious threat to Northern Leopard Frogs and other native amphibians. Fish also compete with other wildlife for aquatic foods. Rotenone is non-persistent in the environment and not toxic to humans or livestock at levels used to eradicate fish and bullfrog tadpoles.
Notices will be posted along the shorelines of ponds to be treated. Please obey the following use restrictions within the posted treatment area:
1) No fish can be taken and eaten from the ponds during the treatment period.
2) Do not use water to irrigate crops during the treatment period.
3) Do not use as potable water source during the treatment period.
4) Do not swim in the ponds until the rotenone product is throughly mixed.
The above list details the water use restrictions applicable to the treatment area for the duration of rotenone toxicity. Rotenone toxicity will persist for 3 to 8 weeks. Assays will be done to determine water toxicity, and water use restrictions will be removed when it detoxifies.
For more information concerning the treatment, contact Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, Region 2 District 5 Wildlife Biologist - Jim Tabor, Phone number 509-754-4624.
This pesticide treatment is regulated under permit by the Washington Department of Ecology Water Quality Program, Eastern WA Regional Office (509)456-2926. These pesticides have been approved for this purpose by the Environmental Protection Agency and the Washington Department of Agriculture.
#09052
Pub.: September 18, 2006