This publication examines how the various components of a pesticide application work (water, pesticide molecules, application equipment). It then describes how adjuvants can enhance pesticide performance and protect against the unwanted consequences of spray drift. The goal is to define what adjuvants do and highlight their value in improving pesticide applications.
This publication explores the aspects of purchasing and using mild steel and stainless steel tanks for farms, businesses, and public agencies. It provides important questions you should ask before you buy, offers tips to properly install tanks, and establishes guidelines for inspection and maintenance.
The use of ride-on sprayer/spreaders by lawn care operators (LCOs) and the sports turf industry has increased dramatically since they were introduced in the 1980s. Ride-on equipment offers a number of competitive advantages over walk-behind spreaders and the hand-gun/hose-reel type of application. This publication addresses specific procedures for separately calibrating the pesticide sprayer and the […]
This publication addresses specific procedures for separately calibrating the pesticide sprayer and the fertilizer spreader of ride-on equipment. The goal is to ensure proper application to optimize performance.
This publication describes steps that pesticide applicators can take to correctly measure and mix products to improve results, save money, and enhance safety. Specifically, it will explain some common myths about measuring pesticides, distinguish the difference between liquid ounces and dry ounces, and offer solutions to common problems associated with measuring devices for liquid and dry pesticide formulations.
This publication provides insights into what to do after one of your trucks, tractors, or agricultural implements is involved in a crash or collision. This guide will describe the legal process, settlements, and court proceedings.
This publication examines the factors that play critical roles in keeping implements or wagons connected to farm tractors and allow operators to maintain control of their implements and loads. Understanding how these factors work together will reduce the likelihood that a trailer could become detached during transport on busy roads or highways.
This publication examines fiberglass storage tanks; their benefits; what to consider before buying them; and how to properly use, install, and maintain them. This publication also is a companion to Poly Tanks for Farms and Businesses (Purdue Extension publication PPP-77).
This publication identifies the critical factors that keep trailers properly attached to trucks. Its goal is to help you understand how those factors work together and reduce your chances of losing a trailer on a busy highway.
This publication explains the benefits and problems associated with the various pesticide formulations. It also can be used to construct a planning or decision-making model for the proper selection of a formulation in a pest control process involving pesticides.
When worn-out hoses fail or don’t work, it becomes very clear how important those inexpensive parts can be. This publication describes design characteristics to look for to correctly select a hose, and offers inspection guidelines to determine when a hose, clamp, or fitting should be replaced.
In today’s competitive atmosphere, the challenge for agricultural retailers is not simply to adapt to change, but to become exceptional retailers. This publication describes the things customers want from their retailers and offers strategies retailers can follow to improve customer loyalty.
Applying the right amount of product means fewer callbacks, more satisfied customers, and greater profits. Properly calibrating and using the hose reel lawn care sprayer means achieving a lawn that meets your customer’s expectations.
The quality of the water used to spray the product is one factor that doesn’t get much attention for effective pesticide applications . Research clearly shows that the quality of water used for spraying can affect how pesticides perform. This publication describes how to test your water quality for better performance of your pesticides.
High-density polyethylene tanks have been used successfully by growers and commercial pesticide application businesses for years. While the benefits of poly tank ownership are well established, the risk of tank failure is real. Like any piece of equipment, poly tanks need to be inspected and maintained to ensure that the benefits of use outweigh the risk of tank failure and product release.
Decisions about personal protective equipment (PPE) are challenging for pesticide users on farms and in gardens, pest control businesses, and greenhouses. This publication discusses the links between safety, attitude, and organizational philosophy; explains why PPE is necessary; offers general guidance on selecting PPE; and provides suggestions for care of PPE.
Losing cargo on the road is serious business. The proper loading, positioning, and securing of cargo on a truck or trailer can prevent accidents in transit. This publication refers to government securement regulations and describes proper techniques for securing cargo on farm and commercial trucks and trailers.
This publication describes the role pesticides play in Integrated Pest Management (IPM) programs and introduces pesticide use strategies that reduce exposure to people, nontarget animals, and the environment.
For decades, discussions among scientists and the public have focused on the real, predicted, and perceived risks that pesticides pose to people and the environment. Each use of a pesticide poses some level of risk, so it is not surprising that scientists, the regulated community, government officials, and the public need a realistic understanding of the risks associated with pesticide use. We must analyze how risk is assessed, identify the risks, and determine an appropriate level of concern.
