Farmers are being reminded not to underestimate the distance spray drift can travel in unsuitable conditions as compliance checks are underway, identifying poor spraying practices.
With notable weed development following recent rainfalls across the state, Department of Primary Industries and Regions (PIRSA) officers will be undertaking compliance activities and will pursue any instances of deliberate or negligent use of chemicals in contravention of label instructions.
A maximum penalty of $35,000 per offence may apply, reflecting the seriousness of not following mandatory label instructions.
Farmers must comply with the General Duty requirement of the chemical legislation.
Users must take all reasonable care to prevent or minimise harm to the health and safety of human beings and the environment through off-target impacts of agricultural chemicals.
PIRSA biosecurity operations director Laura Bruce said certain weather conditions such as hazardous inversions could result in spray drift damage up to tens of kilometers from the application site.
“When planning a spray operation, producers must consider sensitive crops such as vineyards, even if they are some distance away,” she said.
“It is crucial that producers do not spray during hazardous inversion weather conditions, which generally exist from late in the evening, right through the night until early morning.”
Label instructions can include mandatory directions regarding spray operations such as droplet side and wind speed, which producers are required to comply with.
“Another way producers can reduce the potential for chemical spray drift is to strictly adhere to spray methods that do not produce fine droplets,” Ms Bruce said.
“Large, coarse droplets are produced when the correct nozzle and pressures are chosen for spray equipment, as specified on the label, which is why following label instructions is important.
“You should be aware of the labels for products in use with particular regard to mandatory directions.”
Mesonet, on-site or local weather stations should be checked prior to spraying, particularly for wind speed and inversion information.
Another key factor in preventing spray drift is boom height with the ideal height 0.5 metres above the chemical target.
Lower application speeds reduce the amount of spray drift, especially when using higher boom heights and speeds should not exceed 20km/hr during chemical application.
PIRSA encouraged all members of the community and producers to report any alleged incidents, alleged misuse or observed damage to the Spray Drift Hotline on 1300 799 684 or email pirsa.ruralchemicals@sa.gov.au.
All reports will be assessed for further action.
