5:08 pm today

Authorities warn growers not to use herbicide linked to birth defects

From Checkpoint, 5:08 pm today

New Zealand authorities are warning growers not to use a herbicide that 's already been banned in America because of links to birth defects. Here Chlorthal Dimethyl also known as Dacthal or DCPA, is a weed killer used for some vege crops, forest nurseries and ornamental plants. Our Environmental Protection Agency is urging people to avoid using it. But if that's not possible the EPA advises taking all precautions to prevent pregnant women being exposed, New Zealand EPA spokesperson Dr Shaun Presow speaks to Lisa Owen.