Part 1 of 2. Methyl bromide - a powerful fumigant used by strawberry growers to sterilize the soil before plants go in - was found to harm the Earth's ozone layer. Strawberry farmers have been clamoring for a replacement, and they may get their wish if the state approves a chemical called methyl iodide. But some state scientists say it could cause cancer and miscarriages in farm workers and nearby communities.