Vorlex


 Vorlex is a restricted use pesticide that can be applied as a preplant soil fumigant, for

 both the field and greenhouse, for control of soilborne diseases, nematodes, weeds and insects.

 Vorlex is comprised of two active ingredients, 1,3-dichloropropene and methylisothiocyanate or

 MITC (Vorlex specimen label). When applied properly, Vorlex vaporizes and moves through

 the soil by diffusion. The Vorlex specimen label states that it is cleared for use in all vegetables

 and strawberry production (for a brief review of information derived from the specimen label

 for Vorlex, refer to Appendix C-2).

 Tarping the soil (plastic mulch) is not required but it can be considered an advantage

 when using Vorlex as a fumigant. Increased efficacy is exhibited when plastic mulch is used.

 Vorlex. was indicated as being the next best alternative to methyl bromide due to increased

 control of diseases, weeds, nematodes, and insects as compared to other alternatives (USDA,

 NAPIAP 1993). However, Vorlex still does not exhibit the kind of control demonstrated by

 methyl bromide. Another disadvantage of Vorlex is that it requires a longer waiting period prior

 to entering the field, and therefore may interfere with crop planting dates.

 The manufacturer of Vorlex (NOR-AM Chemical Company) requested a voluntary

removal of Vorlex from registration with the EPA in November, 1991. The EPA responded in

August, 1992, with approval of cancellation for registration of Vorlex. Vorlex was classified

by the EPA as a List B re-registration product which includes products that are used in the

production of food. This type of classification requires numerous, costly studies for EPA

registration. The research studies for Vorlex were considered old enough for the EPA to require

new studies. The manufacturer examined the market share of Vorlex and the cost of new studies