Farmers Urged to Follow Best Practices for Granular Nematicide Use

In a proactive measure to promote sustainable agriculture, agricultural professionals are being reminded of the critical importance of adhering to granular nematicide best practices. The guidelines, focused on precise application techniques, aim to mitigate the potential environmental impact while effectively managing nematode populations that threaten crop health.

The advisory underscores the significance of using accurate dosages and employing equipment calibrated to ensure even distribution, minimizing the risk of chemical runoff and groundwater contamination. This approach not only supports the long-term viability of farming ecosystems but also aligns with the growing consumer demand for environmentally responsible food production methods.

The six key areas are:

1. Qualification: Operators applying granular nematicides must hold a PA4 or PA4G certification and have completed the ARTIS Nematicide Stewardship e-learning course, in addition to being members of NRoSO.
2. Calibration: Applicators should undergo daily inspections for any damage or wear and must be certified by a qualified NSTS engineer at least biennially to ensure proper function and correct pipework fitting. Usage calculations must be precise to apply the accurate volume per hectare.
3. Single Pass Application: Nematicides must be incorporated into the soil in a single pass immediately before planting, ensuring no granules remain on the soil surface.
4. Shut Off Mechanism: Applicators must be equipped with a cab-controlled device to halt granule flow at least 3 meters before the end of each row, allowing for complete clearance of granules from the piping before the machine is lifted.
5. Spillage Management: A consistent filling point should be used for all applications to quickly identify spillages. Small spillages must be buried immediately, while large spillages should be collected, labeled, and returned to the manufacturer, with any remnants buried without delay.
6. Environmental Checks: Fields treated with nematicides should be monitored 12 to 24 hours post-application for any adverse wildlife effects, focusing on field edges, turn-on/off points, headlands, and breaks within the field.