2005 Year in Review

From the Fields - Pesticide Application Records

Another growing season is here and its time to be reminded of the records that need to be kept regarding pesticide application.

Federal regulations require private pesticide applicators applying a restricted-use pesticide record (1) the brand or product name and EPA registration number, (2) the total amount applied, (3) the size of the treated area, (4) the crop, commodity, stored product, or site treated, (5) the location of the application, (6) the date of the application, and (7) the applicator’s name and certification number. No specific form has to be used, as long as the required data are included. The record must be maintained for 2 years. This information should also be recorded for general use pesticides, even though it is not required.

Weather is not included in the above list. Knowing the weather, especially the wind conditions during the application, is critical for pesticide drift control. By writing down information one is not legally required to maintain (for example, weather data), helps to show you have made the applications within the limits of the law. Recording information that is relevant to label instructions can help one show that due regard was paid to the label instructions. Recording the weather conditions also helps remind the applicator to check the conditions under which one sprays. It can help one notice when conditions have changed and the application should be postponed.

What weather data should be recorded? Knowing that wind is a critical component of pesticide drift, one should record wind speed and direction. Handheld wind meters are invaluable for this job. They are available from many sources and in a wide price range. Compasses are useful also in defining the wind direction. It may be beneficial to also record air temperature and relative humidity. Weather data may not be required by record-keeping laws, but it is smart business to record information important to the pesticide applications you make. It may save some headaches if you are called to defend the decision to spray. The more information you have (about the pesticide application process) to defend yourself, the better. Producers are reminded to review pesticide labels of the products they plan to use, noting especially wind speed, air temperature, and humidity restrictions. Additional information on application equipment and calibration is in the 2005 Illinois Agricultural Pest Management Handbook; your Extension office can help you get a copy.

by  Editor, theCity1.com
April 19, 2005