An assessment of the amounts of arsenical pesticides used historically in a geographical area

Using a methodology that utilizes existing accessible public information, estimates of the amounts of arsenical pesticides historically applied to cropland, turf and golf courses in New Jersey were made to the county level. Specifically, estimates of the amounts of lead arsenate and calcium arsenate pesticides are presented. In New Jersey it is estimated that 49 000 000 pounds (lb) of lead arsenate and 18 000 000 lb of calcium arsenate were applied to soils in the state from 1900 to 1980. Of this, a cumulative total of approx. 15 000 000 lb of arsenic was applied during this time frame. It is important to assess the approximate quantities of arsenical pesticides in New Jersey because soils in the state have been shown to contain elevated levels of lead and arsenic. In order to target soil monitoring efforts, it is important to determine which counties are most likely to have received treatment. Furthermore, exposure assessments can be better evaluated when estimates of application for these pesticides are available.