Attention Herbicide Applicators - Use Caution when Spraying in Close Proximity to Horticulture Crops

The weather this spring has been less than optimal for herbicide application. As a result, some may become anxious and spray in less than optimum conditions, for example: high or gusty wind conditions. This increases drift potential significantly.

The following table is to be used as a guide and is not inclusive of all the potential problems that could result from herbicide drift.

Use Extreme Caution When the following Herbicide Actives are Sprayed Near Sensitive Horticulture Crops - Read the Label ensuring Wind Speeds are not Conducive to Drift

Sensitivity Ratings:
+++ Highly sensitive, damage and yield loss will occur
++ Moderately sensitive, damage and yield loss likely
+ Some sensitivity, damage may occur with minimal yield loss

Note: crop stage is extremely important when determining safety. New plantings versus established plantings of berries, orchards and vineyards will vary significantly in the amount of potential damage from herbicide drift. Transplanted crops increase their tolerance substantially after the 6 true leaf stage.

What to Expect if Drift Occurs:

• The affected producer will call their regional Ministry of the Environment office, whom will do a site visit, take samples of tissue and soil, and have them analyzed for the suspect herbicides. Where appropriate, the offending applicator may face charges under the Pesticide Act.
• The affected producer will contact their insurance adjustor, and advise the applicator to contact theirs.

What to Do if Drift Occurs:

• Take photos at the time of the damage, as well as, throughout the growing season.
• Obtain spray records and weather data at the time of application.
  During harvest document yield loss. For perennial crops the effects of drift will need to be documented for several years.

For further information please visit the following links:

• Ontario Pesticide Education Program
  
• Keeping Good Spray Records