"It is not a matter of to spray of not to spray, but rather what you spray on your lawn" Minister Mackintosh stated. Clear rules outline which zones are to be sprayed with low-risk pesticides, with low-risk zones including private lawns, adjoining sidewalks or patios, school grounds, playgrounds, playing fields, and health and child-care centers. The minister clarified that the use of pesticides in forestry and agriculture would not be affected. Exemptions in areas where noxious and poisonous weeds cause health and environmental problems, will be in the bill.

In 2013, public consultations confirmed that Manitobans support increased restrictions on pesticide use.

"The benefits extend well beyond the immediate protection of pets and children to the environment itself, as fewer chemicals will leach and drain their way into provincial rivers, streams and lakes," said Gideon Forman, executive director of the Canadian Association of Physicians for the Environment.

View April 23, 2014 CBC News article
View April 22, 2014 Manitoba Government news release
View April 22, 2014 Ecojustice blog post