Verifying what chemicals are used on cropland in Illinois and in most states is a process mired in conflicting assumptions and sometimes inaccessible data. That difficulty was highlighted recently in a debate over endosulfan use in central Illinois.

Endosulfan is an insecticide and endocrine distruptor. It is a restricted-use chemical for use on squash including pumpkins, green beans, peas, cucumbers, apples, sweet corn and potatoes, among other crops grown in central Illinois, according to documents recently filed with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

A coalition of 42 organizations including The Land Connection founded by Terra Brockman of Congerville, sent a letter earlier this month to Lisa Jackson, administrator of the EPA urging an immediate ban of all uses of endosulfan. The petition includes a map showing endosulfan use in the Peoria Tri-County Area is the highest in the state and among the higher use areas in the nation.

According to Pesticide Action Network, low-dose exposure while in the womb is linked to male reproductive harm, autism and birth defects. High-dose exposure is acutely toxic and results in seizures, vomiting, nausea, headaches and in extreme cases, unconsciousness and death, according to the network.

EPA data shows virtually everyone is exposed to at least small amounts of endosulfan in food with young children receiving the most.

The Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants Review Committee noted endosulfan could "lead to significant adverse human health and environmental effects, such that global action is warranted."

Pete Fandel, a crop specialist with University of Illinois Extension in Woodford County, said endosulfan is not used in his county. He said cheaper, less toxic chemicals are available.