Which agency is responsible for determining pesticide use in California?

The Department of Pesticide Regulation (DPR) is the agency specifically tasked with regulating pesticide use in California. This agency operates under the California Environmental Protection Agency and is responsible for the oversight of pesticide registration, ensuring that pesticides are safe for both human health and the environment. The DPR also develops policies and programs aimed at reducing pesticide risks to ensure sustainable agricultural practices and public safety.

While the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) does play a role in regulating pesticides on a federal level, the duties related to pesticide use in California, including enforcement of state-specific regulations and policies, fall squarely under the purview of the DPR. Other entities, such as the California Department of Public Health, focus on public health aspects, and the California Environmental Resources Agency encompasses a broader range of environmental conservation responsibilities, but neither is directly responsible for the specific regulation and determination of pesticide use.