Slide
Background
Litigation under the Endangered Species Act (ESA) has long influenced how EPA regulates pesticide use. Courts have required EPA to consult with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the National Marine Fisheries Service to evaluate potential effects on listed species and habitats. While protecting species is a shared goal, implementation has often resulted in broad, one-size-fits-all restrictions, such as large buffer zones and no-spray areas, that limit how farmers can manage pests and reduce productive acreage.

CPDA’s Role and Leadership
The Council of Producers & Distributors of Agrotechnology (CPDA) is working to ensure ESA compliance is both scientifically sound and workable for agriculture. CPDA collaborates closely with EPA and stakeholders to identify practical, science-based solutions that protect species while keeping farmers productive. CPDA played a leading role in advancing Drift Reduction Adjuvants (DRAs) as an approved mitigation tool within EPA’s ESA framework. This recognition gives growers flexibility to comply with ESA requirements while maintaining effective pest management and crop protection.

Moving Forward
CPDA continues to advocate for additional science-based mitigation options to provide growers with practical compliance tools.
To help raise awareness and understanding of ESA requirements, CPDA is developing a suite of educational resources for the pesticide and agricultural community, including an introductory ESA 101 presentation available below.
 

Tools and Resources

ESA DRAs Awareness Campaign Materials

Click Here
CAMPAIGN

ESA Mitigation White Paper

Click Here
PDF

Adapting to ESA Video Series

brought to you by CPDA, CropLife America & Agricultural Retailers Association
Click Here
VIDEO

2026 ESA Technical Guide to Mitigation Options

Click Here
PDF

ESA 101 Presentation

Click Here
PDF

ESA Decision Flowchart

Click Here
PDF

EPA Educational Resources

Click Here
WEBSITE

2025 ABCs of ESA Report

Click Here
PDF

Who is CPDA?

The Council of Producers and Distributors of Agrotechnology (CPDA) is the Business Council for Agrotechnology. Our members provide and distribute the adjuvants, inerts and post-patent crop protection tools that farmers rely on. CPDA is working with EPA and Congress to cut the regulatory backlog so safe, reliable products reach the field faster. CPDA’s members comprise a nationwide network that accounts for nearly 90% of the $15 billion U.S. crop protection market. For nearly 40 years, CPDA has championed science-based regulatory policies that protect the environment while preserving growers’ access to safe, effective crop protection tools. We’re also advancing ESA compliance options like drift-reduction adjuvants that reduce no-spray buffers. 
Protecting the acre. Growing the opportunity. 

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