The use of pesticide leaching models in a regulatory setting: An industrial perspective

Computer based simulation models are being used increasingly to predict the environmental fate of crop protection chemicals. Some considerations that should be given in selecting appropriate models for regulatory purposes include: model applicability, validation, capability, ease of use and documentation. Current applications of regulatory modeling include the rationalization of field data, evaluation of the leaching potential of pesticides and estimation of the probability of leaching. Problems commonly encountered in modeling include: limited accuracy, lack of defined objectives and standard modeling practices, and misuse of models and results. Models will continue to play an important role in the regulation of crop protection chemicals. It is important that regulators and industry agree on appropriate models and practices, and that regulatory decisions are not based solely on model results but take into account all available data.