As local growers prepare for harvest season, PIRSA is calling on farmers to think about their neighbours when spraying.
Director of Biosecurity at PIRSA, Laura Bruce, says spray drift can cause significant damage to nearby crops, including newly-shooting grape vines which are highly susceptible to many broadacre herbicides.
“Operators need to understand the way that different chemical formulations behave in the atmosphere, she said.
“It is vital that spray operators carefully select the right chemical for the job, taking into account weather conditions and the risk of off-target damage or unacceptable residues affecting neighbouring land, plants or animals.”
The deliberate or negligent use of chemicals not in accordance with their label carries a maximum penalty of $35,000 per offence.
PIRSA will be conducting ongoing compliance checks this season.
