Several organizations have come together to offer farmers in Ontario support in reducing the risk of off-target pesticide application through the Be Drift Aware campaign.
Drift is the unintentional aerial movement of plant protection products away from the intended target. It is an issue that can impact crop yield, crop quality and input costs. Drift can also negatively impact neighbouring fields, residences, livestock, and sensitive natural habitats and cause tension with neighbours.
Be Drift Aware was created by Grain Farmers of Ontario, Ontario Federation of Agriculture, Ontario Fruit and Vegetable Growers Association, Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs, and CropLife Canada.
Anytime someone sprays, there is a possibility of unintended drift. With best practices in place, there is an opportunity to reduce the risk, the group says.
Growers and spray operators can access all resources at a new central resource hub www.BeDriftAware.ca. The website includes an online quiz and resources organized around three key best practices – “be size aware,” “be height aware,” and “be wind aware.”
Be Drift Aware partners will share spray drift messages and reminders throughout their established communication channels – newsletters, social posts and events – to encourage members to visit the new site to access resources about spray drift.
