Pesticides
In This Section
What Is A Pesticide?
A pesticide is any substance or mixture of substances intended for preventing, destroying, repelling, or mitigating any pest. The term pesticide includes insecticides, herbicides, fungicides, and various other substances used to control pests. Under United States law, a pesticide is also any substance or mixture of substances intended for use as a plant regulator, defoliant, or desiccant.
Pests are living organisms that occur where they are not wanted or that causes damage to crops, humans, or other animals. Examples include some insects, mice and other animals, unwanted plants (weeds), fungi, microorganisms such as bacteria and viruses.
Many household products are pesticides. All of these common products are considered pesticides:
- Cockroach sprays and baits
- Insect repellents for personal use
- Rat and other rodent poisons
- Flea and tick sprays, powders, and pet collars
- Kitchen, laundry, and bath disinfectants and sanitizers
- Products that kill mold and mildew
- Some lawn and garden products, such as weed killers
- Some swimming pool chemicals
What Can You Do To Prevent Pesticides From Entering Streams And The Lake?
Responsible uses of these products can significantly reduce their impact to water quality.
- A Lake-Friendly Gardening Kit is available with tips and alternatives to reduce pesticide use.
- Crane Fly IPM Program
