Agrichemical compliance
Many growers choose to get spray contractors to do their orchard agrichemical spraying. However, both the MSO and contractor have responsibilities around spraying agrichemicals.
MSO responsibilities
- Orchard spray plan is in place:
- The plan identifies sensitive areas such as nearby houses, schools, livestock, pathways, waterways and other crops.
- The plan must include how spray drift is kept inside the orchard boundary where vines are planted right up to orchard boundaries and/or there is limited shelter to prevent spray drift.
- The plan should include no-spray buffer areas in accordance with the rules of the agrichem (i.e. Hi-Cane) and any applicable regional air plan rules.
- Notifying neighbours at least 12 hours beforehand (note the time period can vary by region. Check the applicable regional air plan). Ensure you have the right phone numbers for your neighbours so you can get in touch when planning your spraying.
- Ensuring the required signs are in place.
- Ensuring the spray contractor holds a current C.A.V.
- Listen to the spray contractor. If they tell you the conditions aren’t right for spraying, wait until conditions are right.
Spray contractor responsibilities
- Following the orchard spray plan.
- Meeting local authority requirements including signage and drift management.
- Ensuring staff have necessary qualifications.
- Ensuring spraying only takes place in the right conditions – ie no more than a breeze.
- Checking the agrichemical labels to ensure the rules are being followed.
