Think before you spray to reduce drift risk

The Department of Primary Industries and Regions (PIRSA) is urging South Australian grain producers to be vigilant and exercise caution when applying agrichemicals this spring.

September is a high-activity period for spraying agricultural chemicals in South Australia and a critical time for managing weeds. At the same time, grapevines are experiencing bud-burst and are highly sensitive to spray drift damage from herbicides being used inappropriately in cropping situations.

PIRSA is reminding growers to adopt best practices for spray application, including monitoring weather conditions, adjusting equipment settings, and selecting the right chemicals to avoid spray drift onto neighbouring properties or locations further afield.

Agricultural chemicals should not be sprayed when weather conditions are unsuitable and especially not sprayed in hazardous inversion conditions that can occur most nights. It is crucial to strictly follow label directions and best practice to reduce the potential for chemical drift.

Requirements to reduce spray drift:

• Check the weather: Only spray when winds are light (3–20 km/h) and blowing away from sensitive crops. Avoid spraying 1–2 hours before sunrise or after sunset, when hazardous inversion conditions are more likely.
• Avoid hazardous inversions: Don’t spray when the air is still or there’s a hazardous inversion, as this can carry chemicals long distances.
• Use the right droplet size: Choose very coarse or ultra-coarse droplets, which are less likely to drift than fine droplets.
• Keep the boom at the right height: Position spray booms at the recommended height (about 0.5 m above the target) to improve coverage and reduce drift.

PIRSA is urging growers to stay informed on regulatory requirements, label instructions, and the use of spray technology that reduces drift potential. PIRSA will be actively conducting surveillance during high-risk conditions and will be in the field conducting on-farm chemical use compliance checks. Penalties for not following mandatory label instructions can be as high as $35,000 following a successful court prosecution.

PIRSA encourages all community members and producers to report any incidents, misuse, or observed damage to the Spray Drift Hotline on 1300 799 684 or via email at pirsa.ruralchemicals@sa.gov.au. Reports can be made anonymously and will be acted upon.

By following these practices, producers can ensure spraying activities are effective and environmentally responsible during this busy period.