EPA To Review Health Risk From Popular Weed Killer

The Environmental Protection Agency said recently it is "re-evaluating the health effects of a popular weed killer that has been found in drinking water supplies," to determine if further restrictions are needed to combat health concerns (Dina Cappiello, AP for Find Law, 10/7). Atrazine, a herbicide commonly used on corn and other crops has been linked to causing "low birth weights, birth defects, and reproductive problems," even at low levels.

Research has shown that "runoff after rain storms can wash the chemical into streams and rivers, where it can enter drinking water supplies." As a products liability attorney in Chicago, I am concerned about the potential reproductive risks associated with consumption of even very low levels of Atrazine and am hopeful that the EPA will act swiftly to minimize any potential health hazards.