143-437. Pesticide Board; functions.

The Pesticide Board shall be the governing board for the programs of pesticide management and control set forth in this Article. The Pesticide Board shall have the following powers and duties under this Article:

(1) To adopt rules and regulations and make policies for the programs set forth in this Article.

(2) To carry out a program of planning, environmental and biological monitoring, and of investigation into long-range needs and problems concerning pesticides. In order to encourage the cooperation of private property owners needed to implement the provisions of this subdivision, the Board may enter into agreements with private property owners to conduct sampling, testing, monitoring, and related activities on their property. Information obtained pursuant to these agreements shall not be disclosed in a manner that would permit the identification of an individual property owner unless the property owner has given permission to disclose the information.

(3) To collect, analyze and disseminate information necessary for the effective operation of the programs set forth in this Article.

(4) To provide professional advice to public and private agencies and citizens of the State on matters relating to pesticides, in cooperation with other State agencies, with professional groups, and with North Carolina State University and other educational institutions.

(5) To accept gifts and devises, and with the approval of the Governor to apply for and accept grants from the federal government and its agencies and from any foundation, corporation, association or individual, and may comply with the terms, conditions and limitations of the grant, in order to accomplish any of the purposes of the Board, such grant funds to be expended pursuant to the Executive Budget Act.

(6) To inform and advise the Governor on matters involving pesticides, and to prepare and recommend to the Governor and the General Assembly any legislation which may be deemed proper for the management and control of pesticides in North Carolina.

(7) To make annual reports to the Governor and to make such other investigations and reports as may be requested by the Governor or the General Assembly.

(8) To exempt any federal or State agency from any provision of this Article if it is determined by the Board that emergency conditions exist which require exemption.