Federated Farmers members have been asked to complete a survey of 83 chemicals used to protect plants from pests.

The Environmental Protection Agency is currently reviewing the use of organophosphates and carbamates and assessing any risks associated with the chemicals.

The end result could be that free access to the chemicals is allowed, there could be special conditions around use, and some could be banned.

Federated Farmers Vice President William Rolleston has said that whilst the organisation's 12,000 farmer members welcome the decision to ‘engage with the industry’, there are concerns about the cost if chemicals are phased out before alternatives are available.

Meanwhile AGCARM, which represents manufacturers and distributors of chemicals, says New Zealand is not geared to deliver chemical alternatives if organophosphates and carbamates are banned.

Whilst agreeing that the chemicals should be replaced  the organisation says there is a hostile environment to the launch of new chemicals.