One of the goals of the newly formed Carroll County Agriculture Association is to provide information that is helpful for the entire community with the concerns of pesticide use. One of the major concerns of its members is educating the public about aerial application of fungicides.

In 2007 there was a dramatic increase in the aerial application of fungicides on corn and soybeans in Carroll County. Because of current price trends and weather patterns it is likely fungicide application will happen this year in corn and soybean fields.

The CCAA wants the public to be aware that when airplanes are spraying fields the public should avoid physical contact with the spray. If airplanes are spraying in fields next to your residence, stay inside until the application is completed to avoid having spray drift come in contact with your skin.

If you come in contact with the spray drift it is advisable to remove all clothing and wash it in hot soapy water and shower immediately with hot water and soap.

If you have an orchard, vegetable truck patch, or a pond that is stocked with fish, please notify your neighboring farmer so that he can relay this information to the aerial applicator to avoid spraying close to these sensitive areas.

Anytime pesticides are being used - be it applying pesticides on your yard or garden or a farmer spraying in the field - one needs to use common sense, be alert, and follow label directions for safe application.

If you have questions contact the Purdue University Extension Office/Carroll County at 765-564-3169 or pmarcellino@ purdue.edu for additional information.

Paul Marcellino is the CCAA's chairman of the Best Management Practices and Certification committee. He is also Carroll County Extension Educator.