Excerpt from the report Introduction: One of the most widely used insecticides in the United States and in the world is DDT. It is effective against a large number of pests whose control is important to assure adequate supplies of food and fiber. Its broad spectrum insecticidal properties, combined with long residual life and relative safety in handling, make it desirable for many control purposes. DDT is a recommended control for at least 150 pests which can damage economic crops. DDT decomposes very slowly under certain conditions, is almost insoluble in water, and has a tendency to accumulate in the fatty tissue of warm-blooded animals including man. There is some concern that certain types of wildlife may be adversely affected by this tendency. This report shows recent use of DDT in U.S. farm production and indicates trends in total U.S. production of DDT and its overall use.