The New York Times reported yesterday, July 14, 2011, that the new Dupont herbicide Imprelis is suspected in the deaths of thousands of Norway spruces, eastern white pines and other trees on lawns and golf courses across the country.
According to the article, Bert Cregg, an associate professor of horticulture and forestry and an extension specialist with Michigan State University has fielded many calls from landscapers and inspected affected trees, said the problem existed across the country. Many extension services have issued warnings, Dr. Cregg said. “This is going to be a large-scale problem, affecting hundreds of thousands of trees, if not more,” he said. Imprelis is used on athletic fields and cemeteries as well as on private lawns and golf courses, he noted.
Imprelis was being looked upon favorably by the EPA and as a newer, safer herbicide; even as issues have arisen regarding Imprelis tainted compost. It should also be noted that Imprelis cannot be used in New York because of concerns that it does not bind in the soil and that it leaches into groundwater.