Pesticide Information

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.

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).

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.

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.

This publication emphasizes the importance of providing sound pesticide advice to customers. Good diagnostic skills are essential. You personally must know and understand the behavior of various pests and have a working knowledge of various control options available; and must ensure that your customers understand your recommendations.

The care that you devote to maintaining your fleet goes a long way in conveying your commitment to quality service. This publication discusses the importance of vehicle maintenance, safe driving practices and how to respond to pesticide spills.

Homeowners strive for beautiful and productive lawns, and sometimes, despite using good cultural practices, pests get the upper hand. When using pesticides to control pests it’s important to follow procedures and know how to use spraying equipment effectively.

Not calibrating lawn application equipment is like placing a meal in an oven and setting the temperature randomly. If the over is too high, the food is overcooked; too low, and it undercooked. This publication describes the basics of calibrating lawn care pesticide application equipment.