What is it?
The total pounds of pesticide active ingredient applied to agricultural land in a county per year, including herbicides, insecticides, and fungicides.
Why it matters
Communities near intensive pesticide application face exposure through drift, runoff into drinking water, and worker contact. Several common pesticides are associated with cancer, developmental harm, and Parkinson's disease.
Reference value
Counties in the top 20% nationally for pesticide pounds per square mile, particularly in agricultural-worker communities, are higher concern.
Data source
USGS Pesticide National Synthesis Project (PNSP) · View source →