What is required before conducting research on unregistered pesticide products?

Before conducting research on unregistered pesticide products, obtaining Research Authorization from the Department of Pesticide Regulation (DPR) is mandatory. This requirement ensures that any research involving these products is closely monitored and adheres to regulatory standards. The DPR aims to protect public health and the environment, and by requiring authorization, they can ensure that any experimental use of unregistered pesticides does not pose unacceptable risks.

The process typically involves submitting an application that outlines the proposed research, including the objectives and methods of the study. This helps the DPR assess potential risks and ensure compliance with safety regulations.

While state approval is necessary for many agricultural practices, it is the Research Authorization from the DPR that is specifically required for research involving unregistered pesticides. Certification from local pesticide applicators may be important in other contexts, but it does not replace the need for DPR's explicit authorization. Likewise, restrictions on the amount of pesticide used could be relevant in certain situations, but they are not a prerequisite for initiating research on unregistered products.