Pest Management Evaluating and using a tailored pest management system to reduce crop and environmental damages. Scouting is done to identify insects, weeds and diseases.

How it helps
Scouting and spot treatment for only those pests that are threatening can 
    save money.
Using fewer chemicals improves water quality.
Specific treatments for specific pests on specific areas of a field prevents
    over-treatment of pests.

Planning ahead
Which soils on your farm are likely to leach pesticides?
Did you establish filter strips along streams?
Did you consider pest control alternatives?
Did you use records of crops and pest control for reference?
Did you rotate crops to reduce the chance of pest problems?

Tech notes
Following are guidelines to follow for applying and mixing pesticides:
Complete a pesticide risk assessment of potential environmental damage 
     from leaching or runoff. Consider this information when selecting a pesticide.
Wear protective clothing when applying pesticides.
Mix and load pesticides in an area that won't contaminate water supplies; 
    and prevent back siphoning.
Triple rinse containers before disposal. Burn paper bags.
Apply pesticides during periods of minimal potential for drift or runoff.
Use the lowest application rate practical and rotate pesticides.
Use spot treatment or banding when possible in areas of concentrated pest
     populations.
Use proper erosion control.

Maintenance
Continue scouting to best identify pests and control methods.
Keep records to track costs and chemical application.
Calibrate spray equipment.

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