Keep Pitt Green
The Hidden Dangers of Glyphosate Misuse
Glyphosate-based herbicides are widely used in lawn care and agriculture to control weeds, but their improper use can have serious environmental and health consequences. While these products may seem like a convenient solution for maintaining green spaces, they can negatively impact soil health, water quality, wildlife, and even human well-being.
Understanding Glyphosate’s Effects on Our County
“Improper use or overuse of chemicals can lead to the loss of vegetation, particularly on ditch banks. This disruption can block proper drainage, resulting in standing water that may negatively impact neighborhoods and business areas,”
Janis Gallagher, County Manager.
Soil Degradation & Erosion
- Glyphosate disrupts soil microbiomes, reducing beneficial bacteria and fungi necessary for healthy soil.
- Decomposed organic matter is diminished, leading to compacted soil that cannot absorb water efficiently.
- Increased soil erosion leads to sediment runoff, polluting local water sources.
Learn more on soil health impact: USDA on Soil Health
Water Contamination & Ecosystem Damage
- Runoff from treated lawns and agricultural fields can introduce glyphosate into lakes, rivers, and groundwater.
- Contaminated water sources can negatively impact fish, amphibians, and other aquatic life.
- Glyphosate residues have been detected in rainwater and drinking water supplies.
Learn more on water contamination: EPA on Glyphosate in Water
Potential Health Risks
“Standing water resulting from erosion of ditch banks creates an ideal breeding ground for mosquitoes and harmful bacteria, posing significant health risks to both humans and livestock,”
Matthew Stevens, Pitt County Cooperative Extension Director.
- Studies suggest prolonged exposure to glyphosate may be linked to certain health issues, including non-Hodgkin lymphoma.
- Traces of glyphosate have been found in food products, potentially leading to ingestion by humans and animals.
- The World Health Organization’s International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classified glyphosate as "probably carcinogenic to humans."
Learn more on health risks: WHO IARC Glyphosate Report
Impact on Pollinators & Wildlife
- Glyphosate exposure has been shown to harm bees and other pollinators by reducing available nectar sources.
- Loss of milkweed and other wild plants due to glyphosate contributes to the decline of monarch butterflies.
- It affects small mammals and birds by reducing food sources and disrupting natural habitats.
Learn more on wildlife impact: Xerces Society on Pollinator Protection
Healthier Options Through Safer Practices
“Pitt County urges all residents and businesses to carefully read the labels on their lawn care products. By doing so, you can ensure safe and effective application, helping to protect our environment and maintain healthy landscapes,”
Benji Holloman, Chair, Board of County Commissioners.
To mitigate these negative effects, consider selective herbicides and natural weed management strategies, such as:
- Hand-pulling weeds and using mulch as a natural weed barrier.
- Choosing selective herbicides like Spectracide, Ortho, and Scotts, which target specific weeds while preserving beneficial plants.
- Implementing organic solutions like vinegar-based herbicides or flame weeding for non-toxic control.
Learn more on safer alternatives: Beyond Pesticides – Alternatives
Explore Research, Guidance & Local Conservation Support
- ATSDR ToxFAQs for Glyphosate
The Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry provides a fact sheet answering common questions about glyphosate's health effects and environmental impact. - FDA Questions and Answers on Glyphosate
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration offers insights into glyphosate's usage, regulation, and safety assessments. - National Pesticide Information Center's Glyphosate Fact Sheets
Comprehensive fact sheets detailing glyphosate's properties, health effects, and environmental considerations. - Pitt Soil & Water Conservation District
Serves by assisting to alleviate natural resource problems and enhance the protection of natural resources through environmental awareness. - NC Cooperative Extension
Provides research-based education and resources to support agriculture, environmental stewardship, community development, and healthy living.