Warning out to use pesticides safely
We're reminding the community about the safe baiting of mice and pesticide runoff in horticultural farms.
Recent reports of increased mouse numbers in regional communities have NSW farmers on high alert and ready to take swift action after last year’s devastating mouse plague.
We understand the community want to act quickly to protect their property and family if mouse numbers increase, but warn baiting should be done with care.
EPA Acting CEO Carmen Dwyer said some people may have already started mouse baiting to get numbers under control ahead of the breeding season in Spring.
“We’ve seen the advice that farmers should monitor and act but anyone baiting should ensure they are doing it safely and correctly. Be vigilant and take care to follow the directions on the label,” Carmen said.
“Misusing baits can put your family, neighbours, pets and wildlife at risk – especially the practice of mixing and blending pesticides.”
All pesticide users should only use the recommended amount of bait and think carefully about where they are placed.
Anyone with a concern, knowledge of an incident involving pesticide misuse, or seeking further information can contact the EPA’s Environment Line on 131 555.
The EPA has three baiting fact sheets to assist farmers that can be found at the below links.
- Guidance on the handling and disposal of dead mice
- Guidance on handling native wildlife in areas where zinc phosphide has been deployed
- General warning about native wildlife in areas where zinc phosphide baits are used for mouse control
Pesticide run off focus in horticultural farms
Water quality is important to both human health and the environment and we’re keen to ensure local growers use pesticides correctly to prevent pesticide runoff and impacts on local waterways and aquatic life.
To achieve this, we are working with industry groups to help educate farmers about their obligations and compliance required, when using pesticides.
EPA Director of Regulatory Operations Steve Orr said it was critical for growers to use pesticides responsibly to keep the local environment healthy.
“Inspectors targeted the misuse of pesticides at horticulture farms in the Hearnes Lake Catchment Area, near Coffs Harbour, through widespread inspections this June,” Steve said.
“Our officers focused on pesticide use, storage, record keeping and wastewater management.”
Water quality is important to both human health and the environment. If growers need more information about using pesticides correctly, they can call the EPA’s Environment Line on 131 555.