Most American consumers not familiar with farming will talk about the dangers of pesticides and how much damage they do to the environment.

To combat that narrative, CropLife America commissioned the University of Arkansas to conduct an independent three-year Life Cycle Assessment that comprehensively evaluates the environmental benefits and impacts of pesticide application.

CLA President and CEO Alexandra Dunn says the assessment looked at 40 different farms that didn’t control weeds or insects.

“What we learned is that the weeds ultimately would take over, the insects would take over, and the farmer would have to use more land, use more water, and, ultimately, more greenhouse gases would be emitted. So, by controlling pests and controlling weeds, we’re actually able to help the land be more productive and get more out of the land that we have, and the farmer can actually produce more.” 

Dunn noted it’s important to use assessments such as this to educate the general population about the challenges and successes taking place in the farming community.

And when it comes to politics, she said science-based reports go a long way to ensuring farmers and producers get a seat at the table and can share the story of agriculture.

“Those legislators that sit in the state houses up in the Pacific Northwest, getting out, I mean, hopefully some of them are growers and farmers running for office. You know, the more farmers and growers that are actually decision makers, that’s better for farming. So, we certainly are looking for people who understand agriculture to be involved in policymaking, because we really need that, so that people who are familiar with the advances in ag to really speak for ag when we’re passing new laws and new requirements.”