Small-scale field tests

Mating disruption experiments with spruce budworm in laboratory, small-scale field tests and "semi-operational" field trials have recently been reviewed (27). Work to date, on the disruption of spruce budworm mating behavior has concentrated on the use of the primary components /Zll-14 Ald s (95-97% E), and the results indicate that some mating disruption does occur. There appears to be a positive correlation between the applied pheromone concentration and the percent disruption, and based on field cage studies, percent disruption is inversely related to insect density (27) as would be predicted (32). 

Testing of the laboratory-scale technology in small-scale field tests, transfer of the technology to field engineers, and commercialization of the technology (46-47). (See Chapter 22 for a review of field tests.)... 

A few of these new products are now at the stage where they are ready for small scale field testing. This chapter summarizes EPA s current regulatory program for genetically engineered microbial pesticides and presents a case history for one of the experimental products the Agency has evaluated. 

The policy also contained guidance on the kinds of data and information that should be provided to enable the Agency to evaluate the submitted request to conduct a small scale field test. This policy statement was reiterated in a proposed interagency policy statement issued December 31, 1984 (7) and was subsequently revised and set forth on June 26, 1986 as part of a final interagency policy statement (8). Under the June 26, 1986 policy statement, EPA reviews all genetically engineered microbial pesticides before they may be legally applied in the environment. 

Individual small scale field test proposals have been reviewed. The Agency s regulatory decisions have withstood legal challenge and two field trials have been conducted. 

New chemical substances produced only in small quantities solely for research and development are exempt from PMN requirements. This exemption generally excludes small scale field testing of agriculture chemicals from PMN requirements. Field testing of traditional chemicals has a low risk because the area of application is geographically circumscribed and the small quantity used for testing is not likely to spread away from this site. 

As of this writing (Winter, 1985), EPA has received aid evaluated several proposals to conduct small scale field testing with genetically altered microorganisms. In three cases, EPA determined that an EOP would be required and in another case, determined that the product was not subject to the Interim Policy. Two EOP applications are currently utder review. 

REVIEW PROCESS FOR SMALL-SCALE FIELD TEST PROPOSALS... 

EPA has up to 90 days to review each notification of intent to conduct small-scale field testing and to determine whether an EOP is required. The Agency encourages prospective applicants to meet with EPA prior to submission of their notification to discuss their field test and determine what specific data and information would be necessary to evaluate the product. 

Small-scale field testing. The EPA requires notification prior to the use of microbial pesticides for small-scale testing for those organisms which are defined as nonindigenous or genetically altered. The purpose is to screen for possible risk to human health or the environment, and to determine if an EUP is required. Small-scale tests are defined as terrestrial field studies that involve 10 acres or less of land, or 1 surface acre or less of water. 

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