Where It Comes From
Applied to cotton fields; can run off into streams or seep into groundwater after rain or irrigation [1].
How You Are Exposed
Drinking water from private wells or small systems in farming areas; contact with treated fields; pesticide drift; occupational handling; small residues may occur in cottonseed products (e.g., oils) [1][2].
Why It Matters
Animal studies show liver and blood effects with repeated doses; EPA classifies fluometuron as not likely to be carcinogenic to humans. Drinking-water exposure can be a concern in some agricultural settings [1][2].
Who Is at Risk
Farmworkers and applicators; people living near treated fields; users of shallow/private wells in cotton-growing regions; infants and pregnant people due to greater exposure per body weight [1].
How to Lower Your Exposure
Follow label directions and use protective gear when applying; respect re-entry intervals; test private wells if you live near treated fields; use certified activated-carbon or reverse-osmosis filters; keep distance and close windows during nearby applications [1][2].
References
- [1]U.S. EPA. Reregistration Eligibility Decision (RED) for Fluometuron. EPA 738-R-04-012, 2004.
- [2]U.S. EPA. Fluometuron: Human Health Risk Assessment for Registration Review. Office of Pesticide Programs, 2017.