The French Biodiversity Office (OFB) noted in October 2022 that plots had been sprayed with weedkillers in the commune of Cournon d'Auvergne in Puy-de-Dôme. The product used, Roundup, is legal, but it must be used at a distance of five meters from a water point. Verifications made, the land belongs to the mayor of the commune of Cendre, Hervé Prononce.
This Monday, before the judicial court of Clermont-Ferrand Hervé Prononce was prosecuted for inappropriate use of plant protection products. During his hearing, he specified that the ditch was completely dry when the weedkiller was spread. However, this is prohibited because the particles of the product can remain in the soil for a long time and then be transported by water later. The farmer could not not know, “to use these products you need certification, and the labels on the cans remind you of their strict use.“, specifies the OFB agent in court. The department's water points are listed on a map issued by the prefecture.
“Improper use of these products can have serious consequences on public health” recalls the public prosecutor. He demanded a fine of 10,000 euros, half of which was suspended. The court finally sentenced Hervé Prononce to a fine of 3,000 euros, including 2,000 suspended.
