Experts Unpack Nuances of Pesticide Application

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While popular culture often portrays pesticide use in a negative light, a systematic review of the evidence indicates a more nuanced reality. Experts from Syngenta and Ag Insight discuss the extensive regulations governing pesticides, the role of protecting endangered species, the importance of proper nozzle selection and calibration, and the challenges of avoiding temperature inversions during application.

Why it matters

Pesticides are one of the most heavily regulated industries globally, with the U.S. having one of the most thorough and science-based review processes. Understanding the realities of pesticide application, including the environmental protections in place, is crucial for farmers, policymakers, and the public to have an informed perspective on this important agricultural practice.

The details

Syngenta's Richard Brain and Ag Insight's Dan Perkins unpacked findings from a field spray drift study, explaining how they developed more refined pesticide buffer guidelines. EPA regulations require farmers to follow pesticide labels closely, with protecting endangered plant and animal species playing a significant role. Nozzle selection and annual calibration are critical for proper application rates, while avoiding temperature inversions during spraying remains an ongoing challenge.

• The EPA recently proposed important changes to Application Exclusion Zone requirements to provide greater workability while continuing to protect farm workers.
• With the wild spring and slow, wet, cool start to the growing season, many fields did not get the early-season residual herbicides they usually would, according to the University of Nebraska — Lincoln.

What they’re saying

What’s next

The EPA and pesticide manufacturers have made it clear they do not want pesticides applied during temperature inversions, but this remains an ongoing challenge for farmers to navigate.