Learn about strategies for safe pesticide use in your Florida citrus grove, from the experts at UF/IFAS.
“The use of pesticides in citrus groves introduces significant risks to both human health and the environment,” shared a Citrus Industry article, adding that “improper use can cause impacts to the applicator, other people or non-target organisms.” The article shared strategies for safe pesticide use and more. See the details below.
Risks from Pesticides
The article advised that “In Florida, the application of a restricted-use pesticide requires a pesticide license, so the applicator understands the implications of toxic pesticides and exposure to them.” This is to teach best practices and strategies for safe pesticide use.
“Pesticides can enter the body through four primary routes: dermal (skin), ocular (eye), inhalation and ingestion,” the article advised, with dermal exposure being the most common way that pesticide exposure occurs. There are a host of short- and long-term health effects of pesticide exposure that should be avoided.
Strategies for Safe Pesticide Use
The article advised that applicators should “Avoid pesticide exposure with proper preparation for the application. Read the label before purchasing, mixing, applying, storing or disposing of pesticide containers.”
Strategies for safe pesticide use include preventative measures and more. The article shared preventive measures, including:
- “Use PPE as required on pesticide labels.
- Follow all safety instructions and re-entry intervals.
- Ensure proper storage and disposal of pesticides.
- Clean up any spills immediately and wash hands after working with pesticides to prevent cross contamination.”
See the full article for additional information.
Griffin Fertilizer is committed to helping both growers and ranchers make sound agronomic and economic decisions in order to maximize the health of their grove and pasture. As a full-service custom dry & liquid fertilizer blender and crop protection product distributor, we will continue our mission to further advance Florida agriculture. For questions or concerns about your farm or pasture, contact us and one of our team will be in touch.