HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0491.101 2020-2022 if 1
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Hawaii caftlemews Councii, Ines
Bill 91
Banning herbicide use by the County Department of Parks and Recreation
Wednesday,December 22,2021
Members of the Hawaii County Council,
The Hawaii Cattlemen's Council,Inc is the Statewide umbrella organization comprised of the fiv
county level Cattlemen's Associations.Our 150+member ranchers represent over 60,000 head ole
beef cows;more than 75%of all the beef cows in the State.Ranchers are the stewards of
approximately 20%of the State's total land mass.Many of our ranchers are located on Hawaii
Island,where the majority of the state's beef cattle are raised.
The Hawaii Cattlemen's Council opposes Bill 91 which prohibits the use of glyphosate-based
pesticides b the County m arks or facilities.This bili is unnecessary,p Y tJ'� P as pesticides are already .
regulated at the federal and state level to ensure safety of human and environmental health.
Decades of scientific research and experience confirm that glyphosate can be and in fact,is being
used safely and effectively.Passing this bill will only pave the way for expanding restrictions to
farmers are ranchers,who use the products responsibly.
In all cases,we strive to minimize the use of herbicides but need to protect the right to use them.It
is an important tool for ensuring that farmers and ranchers can continue to provide high quality
food to the our state.In the ranching community,we go to great lengths to ensure that all products
are used pursuant to federal and state guidelines,are stored properly,and employees are trained
on a regular basis in regard to safety and mitigating any effect on neighboring properties.
We oppose Bill 91 and appreciate the opportunity to comment on this issue.
Nicole Galase
Managing Director
Conun* N 4410
Ref. To. t.A 1
Ref, Date DECZ 2 2021
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