Various agencies and commercial businesses in the Greater Houston Metropolitan Area have used toxic pesticides for decades in an attempt to control weeds (herbicides), insects (insecticides), and fungus (fungicides). In September 1998, a broad swath of brown vegetation unexpectedly lined the streets in a developing neighborhood near Memorial Park. Lengthy investigation revealed that a particularly toxic dose of several different pesticides mixed in a "cocktail" had been sprayed on these curbside areas where children walk to school, neighbors walk their dogs, and rainwater empties into storm sewers and bayous. In two similar incidents a community service worker was observed spraying herbicides on the median of Heights Boulevard in the afternoon right before school dismissal and, near Hermann Park, herbicides were sprayed on the banks of Braes Bayou where children study and play during nature field trips.

After much research and investigation, including two meetings of an "herbicide task force," several individuals collaborated with other concerned citizens to form a new organization designed to develop a grass roots community education program and assist in the ordinance changes needed to reduce or eliminate pesticide use. Our goal is to join with other environmental groups throughout Houston and Texas to help create a healthy environment for all Texans.

On September 10 and 11, 1999, Texans for Alternatives to Pesticides (TAP) hosted a statewide conference for the Texas Pesticide Information Network in Houston. The conference, "New Perspectives on Pesticides," brought together interested citizens, academics, pesticide experts and public-interest organization leaders to discuss key pesticide issues in Texas and build further support for the reduction of pesticides while promoting alternative methods and products.

By educating the public and public officials about the harmful effects of pesticides and about safer alternatives, TAP seeks to promote its mission to "reduce the use of toxic pesticides in schools, homes, and public places".