Herbicides
Herbicides are chemicals used to manipulate or control undesirable vegetation.
They play a crucial role in various contexts:
- Agriculture: Herbicides are commonly used in row-crop farming. They are applied before or during planting to maximize crop productivity by minimizing other vegetation. Fall applications may also improve harvesting efficiency.
- Forestry: In forestry, certain herbicide formulations help suppress hardwood varieties after clearcutting, favoring conifers.
- Lawns and Landscapes: Herbicides are used to control weeds in lawns, commercial forests, and managed landscapes.
When it comes to commercial herbicide application, there are specific requirements and certifications you need to be aware of:
Certification Requirements:
- Federal Law: Any person who applies or supervises the use of restricted use pesticides (RUPs) must be certified according to EPA regulations and state, territorial, and tribal laws.
- Private Applicators: They are certified by state, territory, or tribe authorities through written or oral tests, training courses, or other approved systems.
- Commercial Applicators: They must pass written and performance-based tests or follow other approved certification methods. Recertification is necessary every 3-5 years through continuing education courses.
- Each state, territory, or area of Indian country has its own certification requirements. Some states may even require certification for all commercial applicators, not just those using RUPs.
- Contact your local Pesticide Safety Education Program for training and study materials.
- EPA ensures that state, territorial, tribal, and federal agency certification programs meet certain standards.
- Their efforts also include pesticide registration and ongoing review programs to mitigate risks associated with pesticides, including RUPs.
When applying herbicides personally, it’s essential to follow safety guidelines.
Here are some steps to ensure safe and effective herbicide use:
Read the Label: Always carefully read the herbicide label. It provides crucial information, including:
- Purpose of the herbicide.
- Toxicity level (from “caution” to “danger”).
- Safety precautions and required protective gear.
Protective Gear: Wear the recommended protective clothing and equipment mentioned on the label. This may include goggles, gloves, and appropriate clothing. Avoid washing herbicide-contaminated clothing with other laundry.
Equipment: Ensure you have the correct equipment for herbicide application. This could be sprayers, dusters, or granular applicators. Calibrate your equipment before use.
Timing: Choose the right day and time for application:
- Avoid windy days to prevent drift.
- Mornings or evenings are usually better.
- Stop if the wind picks up during application.
Application Technique:
- Apply herbicides continuously with minimal overlap.
- Follow specific label directions.
- Use the entire mixed herbicide.
Cleanup:
- Rinse spray equipment and flush hoses and nozzles.
- Wash yourself, clothing, and protective gear.
- Remove contaminated clothing before washing face, hands, and body.
Storage and Disposal:
- Store herbicides in original containers away from extreme temperatures and out of reach of children and pets.
- Only buy what you need to avoid unnecessary disposal.
- Dispose of empty herbicide containers properly.
First Aid Preparedness:
- Know the first aid procedures listed on the pesticide label.
- Rinse skin immediately if herbicide contacts it.
- Seek medical help if needed.
Remember, safety is paramount when handling herbicides!
If you need more specific recommendations or have any other questions, feel free to ask!
