New legislation banning the sale and use of many domestic lawn-care pesticides has been implemented and is now law, said Minister of Environment, Energy and Forestry, Richard Brown.

“I am pleased that, after extensive consultations with Islanders, and hearings at the legislative committee, government has implemented changes that restrict the sale and use of more than 240 lawn-care pesticides,” said Brown. “These new regulations reflect government’s commitment to protecting the environment and maintaining healthy communities. I would like to thank everyone, including the Opposition, for their input into shaping this new legislation.”

Public education sessions on pesticide-free lawn care will be held this weekend, said Minister Brown.

“We have partnered with the PEI Environmental Health Coalition to sponsor free sessions across the province with Paul Tukey, a well-respected organic lawn-care professional from Maine,” said Minister Brown. “I encourage people to attend these sessions to gain a better understanding of how to maintain an attractive lawn without using pesticides.”

Mr. Tukey will speak in Summerside tonight, 7 - 9 p.m., at the Loyalist Inn; at the Farm Centre in Charlottetown, Saturday, 2 - 4 p.m.; and at Kaylee Hall, Poole’s Corner, Monday, April 12, 7 - 9 p.m.

For more information about the new regulations, call the Department of Environment, Energy and Forestry at (902) 368-5599 or toll free 1-866-368-5044 or visit www.gov.pe.ca/go/lawnpesticides.