09/22/06 Holds put on some onion fields

Testing on Idaho and Oregon onion lots has confirmed the use of an illegal pesticide application. HOFFMAN "We have since issued hold orders on several onion fields in Idaho. We're conducting additional tests to make sure that these onions are safe to enter the marketplace." That's Wayne Hoffman of the Idaho State Department of Agriculture. Hoffman says when allegations were made that Furadan had been used on some onion fields ISDA was initially concerned about public health but now their investigation is turning toward regulatory issues. HOFFMAN "As it applies to penalties and other issues pertaining to following up from the regulatory standpoint." Hoffman says hold orders have been placed about a dozen fields in southwest Idaho and the state of Oregon has taken similar action on some fields in Malheur County. But two questions have been answered so far; yes Furadan was used but no traces of it have been found in the onions that have been tested. HOFFMAN "It's on the tops but not in the bulb itself." Nearly 22 thousand acres of onions were planted this year by 200 growers in Oregon and Idaho. Voice of Idaho Agriculture Bill Scott