Is Roundup Safe to Use on My Property? [An Expert's Take]

While there are many conflicting statements out there on the topic, here's our expert's take and a few resources to inform yourself below:

My Takeaway:  I have applied Round-Up safely now for 29 years as a CT Licensed Ornamental and Turf Supervisor.  I faithfully follow all label instructions and use personal protective equipment whenever mixing or applying these products.  The State also requires ongoing education to renew my license.  If you are going to use a product like Round-up on your property and want to minimize the risk of exposure for you and your family, hire a professional YOU TRUST to do it. 

In a groundbreaking decision, DeWayne Johnson was awarded a $289 million settlement in August of 2018 from manufacturer Monsanto after a jury of his peers ruled that the company’s weed killer, Roundup (Glyphosate), caused the man’s cancer. Here’s a timeline of events:  

1. In August, jurors unanimously agreed and awarded him a total of $289 million, with $250 million in punitive damages and $39.25 million in compensatory damages.
2. In October of 2018, Judge Suzanne Bolanos reduced the punitive damages to $39.25 million stating she was required to reduce the punitive damages award to a 1 to 1 ratio with compensatory damages
3. Johnson appealed the reduction and Monsanto appealed the verdict
4. Both appeals are still pending.  Read more about the case here. 

You can follow the links below to read more about what has been published on this topic: 

1. “probably carcinogenic to humans.” This was reported by the World Health Organization’s International Agency for Research on Cancer in 2015.
2. “Unfortunately, we don’t have the scientific evidence at this point to know for sure”, Dr. Robb Bassett, the associate medical director for the Poison Control Center at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, told PEOPLE.com in an article posted 8-15-18.
3. According to the National Pesticide information Center, when high doses were administered to laboratory animals, some studies suggest that glyphosate has carcinogenic potential. Studies on cancer rates in people have provided conflicting results on whether the use of glyphosate containing products is associated with cancer. 
4. If You Accept Science, You Accept Roundup Does Not Cause Cancer. This is the title of an article written by the American Council on Science and Health.

…and the list goes on and on!  There are very intelligent and passionate people on both sides of this topic. 

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Since 2007, Green Meadow Lawn Care has provided homeowners throughout the greater Tolland, Connecticut area with premium fertilization programs, tick control, mosquito management, seeding & aeration and tree & shrub care.

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