Pesticide use is a reality. Given this reality, we need to do everything we can to protect those for whom the pesticide is not intended – ie. our beneficial insects like bees and ladybeetles.
When using pesticides, it is very important to read and follow the label.
Carefully following the instructions and warnings on the label will help to protect our environment – and is required by law. By not following the label directions, pesticides are often ineffective and dangerous.
Commonly, labels are pasted to the side of the pesticide container – and require you to unfold the paper multiple times and use a magnifying glass to read it. To help you read these important labels, go here:
http://www.cdms.net/LabelsMsds/LMDefault.aspx - and type in the name of your pesticide (in the ‘brand name’ search box on the right side of the screen). You will be able to pull up the pesticide label – and view it on your computer screen. No unfolding or magnifying glass required!
Additional important points to reduce pesticide risks include:
· Choose the form of pesticide best suited to your target site and the pest you want to control:
o Identify the problem correctly. Then, choose the least-toxic pesticide that will achieve the results you want and be the least toxic to the environment and human health.
o When the words “broad spectrum” appear on the label, this means the product is effective against a broad range of pests. If the label says “selective,” the product is effective against one or a few pests. Broad spectrum insecticides can pose more of a risk to beneficial insects because of this characteristic. So caution is in order.
o Read the label before buying a pesticide, before mixing or using the product each time, and before storing or disposing it.
· Determine the right amount to purchase and use: do not assume that using more pesticide than the label recommends will do a better job.
More information on the safe and legal use of pesticides in Virginia at:
- Virginia Cooperative Extension - Virginia Tech Pesticide Programs - "http://vtpp.org/"or "http://vtpp.ext.vt.edu/"
- Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services - Office of Pesticide Services - "http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/pesticides/
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