Signal California Pilot Tests Steam as Alternative to Chemical Soil Fumigation Near Schools

Summary

The Agricultural Commissioner of Santa Cruz County, California, launched a $175,000 pilot project backed by the state's pesticide regulation agency. The project tests high-temperature steam as a substitute for conventional pre-plant chemical soil fumigation. Several berry growers in the Pajaro Valley have begun trying steam instead of standard fumigation methods, and the research is set to continue for some time. Fields close to schools and other sensitive sites were chosen first for testing in order to cut the risk of airborne toxic exposure nearby. The pilot grew out of discussions with community groups that had raised interest in fumigant alternatives near sensitive locations. It involves a University of California researcher, industry partners, berry growers, landowners and community members, alongside ongoing outreach meetings.