EPA ISSUES WARNING REGARDING QUESTIONABLE HERBICIDE SALES.

ATLANTA--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Sept. 30, 1996--The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency warns farmers, nursery operators, and other consumers in the southeast to be aware of telephone and in-person sales pitches by companies promoting herbicide products with exaggerated guarantees.

EPA Region 4 is aware of situations where salesmen claim their product offers better protection against certain pests and weeds at a much cheaper rate than a well known pesticide. These claims often prove to be unfounded. Frequently, the pesticide is a commonly-used pesticide sold with exaggerated claims at an inflated price.

The actual product may be substantially different and ineffective as compared with the item described over the telephone. Payment for the product is generally COD by certified check or money order. Consumers should be aware that these types of transactions are difficult to stop once in place.

EPA suggests that consumers request a copy of the pesticide label and read it carefully. Legitimate companies generally will provide this information. Additionally, consumers should keep in mind the old adage: "If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is."

Fraudulent pesticide sales should be reported to the state pesticide agencies and to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). The FTC has broad authority over unfair, misleading, or deceptive advertisement.

CONTACT: Cheryn Jones, Pesticides Program, 404/562-8982

or

Carl Terry, Press Office, 404/562-8325