Mothers Against San Francisco LBAM Spraying

The latest public opposition to the CDFA's aerial spraying program comes from an organized group of Bay Area mothers. The San Francisco Chronicle reports that concerned moms are mobilizing to stop the proposed LBAM spray slated to happen in August 2008.

If you've been following the issue here and elsewhere, you know there's more to the aerial spraying logistics than what appears on the surface.

At newspaper message boards, you'll invariably find anonymous posters dismissing public concern over the spraying, suggesting there's no harm in broad application of a pheromone.

The problem is -- it's not just a pheromone. It's a delivery system of tiny plastic microcapsules (which can be inhaled) and a roster additional ingredients with a variety of potential health effects. (This overview of the aerial spraying issue describes the various components of the product and application.)

I've attended community informational forums, city council meetings, and an official environmental scoping meeting. And based on what I've learned across the board, I'm personally and strongly opposed to this spraying. There are too many variables, too many untested propositions, and too much at stake -- especially since there is legitimate question over how much of a threat (if any) the Light Brown Apple Moth poses to California agriculture. Read this report (pdf) by Daniel Harder and Jeff Rosendale, refuting the CDFA's claims of agricultural urgency.

I urge everyone to learn more about the LBAM spraying -- to understand the full spectrum of applications and products, as well as the potential public health effects. The CDFA is determined to proceed. So, if you have doubts or are firmly opposed, it's critical to support the efforts of those who are working to stop the spray over the Bay Area.

Learn more about the LBAM Aerial Spraying Issue - San Francisco & Bay Area:

1. Overview of LBAM Spraying
2. 10 Reasons to Oppose the LBAM Spray
3. LBAM Spray Resources (print & video)
4. Summary of Berkeley Town Hall Meeting (Feb 2008)
5. What You Can Do to Stop the Aerial Spraying Over San Francisco

To get the CDFA's perspective on the issue, go to the CDFA website with links to their LBAM documents.