What agency oversees the regulation of aquatic pesticide applications?

The regulation of aquatic pesticide applications is overseen by the Department of Ecology. This agency is responsible for ensuring that pesticides used in aquatic environments comply with environmental standards and regulations, which are crucial for protecting water quality, native species, and ecosystem health.

The Department of Ecology oversees the permitting process, enforces laws related to pesticide application in water bodies, and monitors the impact of these chemicals on the aquatic environment. This ensures that any pesticide used does not adversely affect water systems, wildlife, or human populations reliant on these ecosystems.

The other agencies mentioned, while essential in their respective areas, do not have primary responsibility for aquatic pesticide regulation. The Department of Health primarily focuses on public health initiatives, including protection against potential health risks from pesticide exposure. The Department of Fish and Wildlife manages wildlife conservation and monitoring but does not directly regulate pesticide applications. The Department of Environmental Quality may address broader environmental concerns, but it is not the specific agency addressing aquatic pesticide regulations.