LAKEWOOD, Colo. ?EUR??,,????'??+ The Colorado Department of Agriculture is warning consumers about a product, which is depicted as a non-toxic herbicide. Sold in stores in Boulder, Colo., the product is labeled "Bradfield Non-Toxic Herbicide: Natural Horticultural Vinegar, 20% acidity." "Since the Bradfield product has not been submitted for registration with us, the composition is unknown, and we cannot identify all of the potential hazards," said Laura Quakenbush, CDA pesticide registration coordinator. The product is not registered with the Department or the Environmental Protection Agency, which is a violation of both state and federal laws. At the state level, this violation of the Colorado Pesticide Act is subject to civil fines up to $5,000 per day per violation. In addition, CDA is investigating the illegal sales and distribution of this product. When tested, the Bradfield product was found to be dangerously acidic, with a pH of 2.2. At such a level, it can be corrosive to eyes, skin and mucous membranes. "This product can cause irreversible eye damage, might be harmful if absorbed through the skin and could be harmful if swallowed," said Quakenbush. All pesticides that are sold, marketed or advertised in Colorado must be registered with the Colorado Department of Agriculture. Under federal and state laws, any substance or mixture of substances is considered a pesticide if it is intended to prevent, destroy, repel or mitigate any pest or any substance or mixture of substances intended for use as a plant regulator, defoliant, or desiccant. Consumers are encouraged to notify the Department, if they are aware of any pesticides sold in Colorado that are not registered with the Department. Individuals interested in checking the status of registered pesticides can call the Department at (303) 239-4147 or access the Internet www.ag.state.co.us/DPI/Pesticides/PPRS/ PRSQuery.htm.