After much back and forth, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced on Dec. 5 a more protective interim decision on sodium cyanide, the compound used in M-44 devices to control predators.
The agency announced they would further review the device after receiving criticism following its August approval.
EPA’s new requirements for the device add increased distances for device placement.
“Through our discussions, we identified new restrictions that will raise awareness and create additional buffers around where M-44s are placed, which will reduce the potential for unintended impacts on humans, pets, and other non-target animals,” said EPA Assistant Administrator for the Office of Chemical Safety and Pollution Prevention Alexandra Dunn.
The new restrictions include a 600-foot buffer around residences where the devices may not be placed unless they have written permission from affected landowners, and increasing the distance from 100 to 300 feet away from public paths or roads.
Two warning signs will also be required to display within 15 feet of the device.
