TUCSON, July 27 (UPI) -- The Tucson, Ariz.-based, Center for Biological Diversity is accusing federal officials of failing to protect endangered species from pesticides.
The Los Angeles Times reported Tuesday the group has concluded about 375 animals and plants -- nearly one-third of the species listed under the U.S. Endangered Species Act -- are exposed to and potentially harmed by pesticides.
The environmental group said in a report the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency "displays a stunning lack of initiative in complying with the Endangered Species Act" and "has shown reckless disregard for the impact of its pesticide regulation program on wildlife."
Each year about 2 billion pounds of chemicals are applied to U.S. farms, lawns and gardens.
EPA officials said in a statement the agency conducts a "comprehensive ecological effects evaluation" for each pesticide they register, but they are "strengthening review of potential risks to federally listed threatened and endangered species."
The EPA says it will examined the group's findings.
