Activists and parents in Arvin are calling on local ag businesses to stop spraying pesticides within a mile of schools, saying those chemicals lead to increased cancer rates in children.

More than a dozen people turned out for Thursday’s rally organized by Californians for Pesticide Reform (CPR). Participants told KUZZ News they are also concerned about making sure their children and grandchildren have places to play that are free of pesticides and pesticide residue.

CPR wants growers to use the non-chemical “Integrated Pest Management” system near schools to control bugs on crops.

Kelli Forsch