ARS | Publication request: DEPLOYMENT OF INSECTICIDES AND ACARICIDES

Submitted to: ESA Handbook on Use and Management of Insecticides, Acaricides, and Transgenic Crops
Publication Type: Book / Chapter
Publication Acceptance Date: February 12, 2004
Publication Date: July 3, 2006
Citation: Hoffmann, W.C. 2006. Deployment of insecticides and acaricides. In: All, J.N., Treacy, M.F., editors. ESA Handbook on Use and Management of Insecticides, Acaricides, and Transgenic Crops. St. Paul, MN: APS Press. p. 73-80.

Interpretive Summary: The users of crop production and protection materials must incorporate technological advances and information into their operations to make the most effective and judicious use of these materials. Once applicators understand how to safely handle and spray a chosen pesticide, the information provided in this paper will help in the selection of the most appropriate application equipment for a given situation. This equipment selection will influence the size of the droplets generated during an application, which, ultimately, produces the deposition characteristics on the intended target. Drift or off-target movement of the spray is also affected by application equipment and weather conditions at the time of application and can be predicted using the computer models discussed. By taking advantage of the technological advances discussed, applicators can make the most of each and every application.

Technical Abstract: This chapter is intended to provide the reader with a general introduction to the various aspects involved with the application of pesticides. Once the applicator understands how to safely handle and spray a chosen pesticide, there are a variety of handbooks, websites, and computer models available to aid in the selection of the most appropriate application equipment for a given situation. This equipment selection will influence the size of the droplets generated during an application, which ultimately, produces the deposition characteristics on the intended target. Drift or off-target movement of the spray is also affected by application equipment and weather conditions at the time of application. Applicators must be diligent in staying abreast of current regulations and new technologies. By taking advantage of these technological advances, applicators can make the most of each and every application.