© 2008 Clackamas
River Basin Council |
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Although the current levels of pesticides in the Clackamas River basin waterways are far below dangerous human health thresholds, their presence in our waterways is a warning sign. During the United States Geological Survey (USGS) study many pesticides exceeded benchmarks that have been set to protect aquatic-life. The majority of the pesticides detected in our waterways come from multiple sources including golf courses, nurseries, agriculture, right- of ways, forestland, parks, landowners, and other urban applications. Since, there are many sources of pesticides, it is crucial that all pesticide users do their part to keep pesticides out of our waterways. The time to act is now, before it develops into a bigger problem.
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Click here to view a fact sheet for Commercial Applicators on steps to reduce pesticide use.
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Tips to Reduce Pesticide Use
If pesticide use is unavoidable, be sure to use them wisely and cautiously. Plan your pesticide application so you mix only as much pesticide as needed for your specific application. Below describes tips to reduce the amount of pesticides use which will help protect you, your community, and the environment. Using pesticides more effectively makes sense for both economic and environmental reasons. Below highlights numerous ways to reduce the impact of pesticides.
To learn more about any of these tips click on the Learn about... links.
Pest Scouting-
Pest scouting is the practice of inspecting trees to identify pests. Frequent scouting allows for early detection and quick response. It is an effective way pesticide applicators can reduce pesticide use and the cost of pest management, while simultaneously increasing the effectiveness of your efforts.
Learn about plant diseases...
Learn about insect pests...
Learn about weeds...
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Create a Streamside Buffer-
A very effective way to keep pesticides out of our waterways is to plant a vegetated buffer strip along the stream or drainage ditch. The larger the buffer the better! Any amount helps, but ideally the buffer is between 20-50 feet wide. Buffers act like a sponge, by absorbing pesticides and other pollutants carried by stormwater runoff. They also help prevent erosion on your property by stabilizing the streambanks.
Learn about creating a buffer...
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Reading the Label-
Always read the pesticide label for specific product information, mixing, loading, safety, and disposal methods. It is critical that you carefully follow the instructions on the label.
Learn about reading labels... |
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Sprayer Calibration-
Improperly calibrated equipment can damage non-target and target plants and increase costs. Always recalibrate if:
- You switch to a different kind of pesticide
- The application equipment has not been used for a long time
- Your equipment is used infrequently or you change parts
Learn about sprayer calibration...
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Minimizing Drift-
Drift is the movement of pesticides through the air to non-target areas. Precautions to minimize drift include:
- Spraying at low-or no-wind conditions (wind speeds 2-9 mph)
- Selecting the appropriate nozzle to produce the largest effective droplet size
- Applying pesticides as close as possible to the target
- Lowering effective operating pressures for your equipment
- Spraying at temperatures less than 70 F
Learn about minimizing drift...
Learn more about minimizing drift...
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Other Useful Links
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Website content and development was made possible through funding from the Clackamas River Water Providers.
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