In the wake of significant new scientific data and risk assessments completed by overseas regulators, the Environmental Protection Authority is reassessing the use of hydrogen cyanamide. The compound is used to help buds form by simulating the effects of frost.
Submitters raised concerns about water contamination, the effects on animals, and the impact on human health for those in communities where spraying occurs.
According to Chris Hill, the EPA’s hazardous substances and new organism manager, there were also submissions from Maori growers that the spray has enabled orchards to be successful in rural areas with less favorable climates. Hydrogen cyanamide is particularly important in warm coastal climates for ensuring bud break of the Hayward green variety, which Māori growers are disproportionately reliant on as they faced financial barriers to access SunGold variety licences.
Source: waateanews.com