by Dr. Douglas F. Welsh, Extension Horticulturist,
Texas A&M University, College Station, TX

Questions about pesticides and the use of insect repellents to thwart mosquitoes carrying such diseases as West Nile Virus, may be answered by checking with the National Pesticide Information Center (NPIC).

The organization, which is housed in the Department of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology at Oregon State University, has free informational brochures which may be ordered by calling 1-800-858-7378. Included material covers many topics such as:

• will chemicals in treated wood contaminate a vegetable garden?
• how long will it take a pesticide to breakdown in the soil?
• should I apply both DEET and sunscreen to children simultaneously?
• where can I learn more about West Nile Virus-carrying mosquitos?

One of the most user-friendly features of the NPIC is the toll-free telephone number which may be utilized by to discuss pesticide concerns with "live personnel" on a daily basis from 6:30 am to 4:30 pm PST - except for holidays.

NPIC provides pesticide information to the general public, health care providers, physicians, veterinarians, local, state and federal agencies, and school districts.