Grains Guide 2015 - Growing Australian Grain

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9 GROWING AUSTRALIAN GRAIN Safely managing risks with crop inputs and grain on farm
Monitoring at least at the start of each chemical load and at the end of the job.
Maximising efficacy and avoiding off-target movement or of chemicals. For example:
◗ Applying chemicals under optimal weather conditions, using:
♦ Weather forecasting to plan spray application jobs.
♦ Tools to assess suitability of weather conditions for application (evaporation & droplet
survival), assessed at the site.
♦ Assessment of risk before and during spraying.
◗ Referring to sensitive area maps before spraying. (eg ; .
◗ Using suitable to minimise drift, eg adjuvants, droplet sizes and equipment.
◗ chemical application equipment to ensure it meets desired standards.
Testing outputs of all nozzles, speed sensors and flow meters.
◗ Regularly checking patterns, nozzle flow along the boom and ground speed.
◗ Agitating the spray tank sufficiently for the load to be uniformly mixed.
Considering and tank mix partners in relation to water quality, crop safety,
efficacy, spray drift potential and odour.
Avoiding holding mixed product in tanks for extended periods.
Ensuring thorough incorporation and of chemicals applied to grain in storage.
Decontaminating equipment.
Using a suitably qualified advisor.
Developing a resistance management plan with your adviser to proactively identify and
manage pesticide resistance risks.
Developing a pesticide use plan that includes application methods, drift risks and
(IPM). Discussing this with your adviser before and during each season.
Notifying neighbours of your seasonal pesticide use plan and planned spray applications.
Using closed systems for , transfer and application of pesticides.
Chemical use continued
OTHER PRACTICES TO CONSIDER IN YOUR GRAIN FARMING ENTERPRISE