Agrichemical Spray Drift

Agrichemical spraying may seem an easy and often inexpensive way to beat pests, but it’s not always the most suitable one. Some agrichemicals can be toxic to humans and pets, or can harm other crops and plants. Excessive use of agrichemicals can result in resistance. It is best to take a cautious approach and use suitable techniques.

New Rules

Currently it is permitted to spray with agrichemicals that are legal to use in New Zealand. Environment Canterbury has prepared a plan aimed at maintaining and improving air quality, which covers agrichemical spraying. The plan encourages best practice in the way agrichemicals are applied.

Alternatives

Good rotation of crops and biological control methods can minimise the amount of agrichemicals required. These methods can produce more sustainable results in the long run.

If You Do Spray

• If you are using agrichemicals read the package carefully and follow all safety precautions from the manufacturer closely! The instructions are there to protect you, your family, your neighbours and the environment.
• Never exceed quantities specified on the packaging, never use any other equipment than the suggested equipment and only mix agrichemicals on manufacturers’ advice. Larger quantities usually do not have more effect and can damage your crops or plants, the environment and can harm you. Even ‘safe’ and ‘bio-degradable’ agrichemicals can become toxic when doses are exceeded.
• Waterways are especially sensitive to agrichemicals. Mix or dilute agrichemicals on an impervious bunded area, or more than 10 metres away from waterways, stormwater drains, etc.
• Calculate the applicable buffer zones for your situation from the Code of Practice for the Management of Agrichemicals. Buffer zones will help protect sensitive areas beyond the area you are spraying.
• As winds can be unpredictable, it is always a good idea to warn your neighbours that you will be spraying close to their boundary and tell them what chemicals you will be using. That gives them the opportunity to take precautions, like keeping children and pets away or covering their crops and plants. Let your neighbours know that you would appreciate it if they would do the same.
• If you accidentally spill agrichemicals, notify Environment Canterbury immediately so that measures can be taken to prevent or minimise damage to the environment.
• Have telephone numbers of neighbours handy in case of an emergency.
• Agrichemical contractors need to be appropriately trained to undertake agrichemical spraying without a resource consent.