SA Farmers are being reminded to follow best practice when spraying for weeds this summer and are urged to refer to the newly developed summer weed control Code of Practice.
To help producers optimise spraying and reduce the risks of spray drift, the Code of Practice provides a standard for the safe and effective application of herbicides for summer weed control, reducing the risk that off-target herbicides pose to grapevines and other susceptible plants.
PIRSA Biosecurity SA rural chemical operations manager Michael McManus said spray drift from summer weed control is a serious threat to sensitive crops.
“When planning to spray, farmers need to consider weather conditions and determine if the equipment and products they’re using are suitable before proceeding,” he said.
“Certain weather conditions, such as inversions, can cause drift of herbicides tens of kilometres away from the application site, resulting in damage to neighbouring grapevines and other susceptible plants.
Mr McManus said to minimise the risk of spray drift damage, it was crucial that farmers comply with the new code of practice.
“This includes complying with new label directions for 2,4-D products recommending extremely coarse or larger spray quality for the period between 1 October to 15 April, and maintaining detailed and accurate records,” he said.
“We are urging anyone who is planning to spray for summer weeds to exercise caution and check the online resources available to help guide correct spraying operations. If you’re not sure, it’s your responsibility to find out.”
Biosecurity SA will pursue all reports of anyone who has either deliberately or negligently caused damage to others by not following regulatory requirements.
If caught offences can carry a maximum penalty of $35,000.