Is a farmer obliged to inform of crop spraying and with what ?

Question

We live with fields all around. At one time years ago the farmer would put a letter through the door informing of crop spraying so we would keep doors and windows closed. This no longer happens. Yesterday the crops were sprayed all around our house and we had all doors and windows open at the time. We asked what was being sprayed and were informed that it was fertiliser. The farm worker said that they were not allowed to spray within two metres of homes. Does this suggest they are spraying with something that shouldn't waft into our homes? Perhaps not fertiliser? In places the farmer has left a 2 metre section unplanted at the edges of the field but not everywhere. Can I have some opinions please ?

Answer 1

They should inform and it must be mandatory especially if spray is being done near houses / inhabitations.

You can check with the local authorities to know the local law.

Answer 2

It's possible that they are required to notify you if they are using certain pesticides, which could be harmful.

Answer 3

Fertilizer is not harmful.  It is only the grass killer like 24-D. power, clear out.  bad for the lungs and they kill vegetable plants.  Some pesticides are harmful to insects but not to humans. Of course, your neighbors care for you    too much to inform you of application.

Answer 4

The spray they use has to be approved by state and federal rules.  They are not obligated to notify you and if you smell it shut up the house. When it comes to how close they can spray--good idea, however wind blows spray and you could still get it.  Crop spraying is not nearly as bad as orchard spraying.

Answer 5

Currently producers are required to notify you of spraying if you have requested it. You can call your state agriculture service and request to be notified of spraying. They must give 24 hrs. notification. Most crop applications are not covered by this because they are not "Restricted Use Pesticides" meaning that they do not require special lic. in which to purchase of use. IF notified they should give you time of application, chemical used or fertilizer, re-entry time, and targeted pest.

This could be weeds to insects to disease.

The EPA here in the USA is quite strict to what chemicals get labeled. I would contact your state Ag service or the producer to request notification. Most farmers or producers are stewards of the land and are as much concerned about drift and over spray as you are. They are concerned also and would like to hear from you. They can best explain what is happening and why. This will allow you a better understanding of the application and it may just benefit you.