BMP Field Manual
Chapter 10 - Chemicals
Common chemicals used in forest management are generally pesticides (insecticides, herbicides and fungicides) and fertilizer. These chemicals are used to control insects, unwanted vegetation and diseases, and to enhance tree growth.
When used properly, chemicals should not affect water quality. However, when improperly applied, chemicals can contaminate surface water or groundwater when they drift, flow overland as runoff, or leach through the soil into groundwater. Most water quality problems associated with pesticides and fertilizers are caused when they are spilled or improperly sprayed directly on surface water.
Some chemicals are labeled for use in or near streams, lakes or wetlands. Still, use extra care when using chemicals in riparian management zones and wetlands.
Integrated Pest Management (IPM) uses a combination of manual, mechanical, biological, chemical and preventative techniques to minimize the impact of insects, diseases and unwanted vegetation. IPM may reduce dependence on the use of chemicals. Contact the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) for information on IPM.
The following best management practices describe techniques to avoid contaminating surface water and groundwater. These guidelines complement local, state and federal regulations governing the storage, sale, transportation, handling and application of chemicals.
By federal law, chemical users must follow Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) labels on pesticide containers.
The manual titled "Pest Management Principles for the Commercial Applicator: Forestry" provides extensive information on pesticide use in Wisconsin. The manual may be obtained from the Department of Agronomy at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Chemicals must be applied by skilled and, where required, licensed applicators according to the registered use, with special consideration given to impacts on nearby surface waters.
General BMPs
- Maintain a spill containment and cleanup kit appropriate for the materials on the operation and report all spills. For general guidelines, see the Spills section in Fuels, Lubricants, Waste and Spills.
- Follow all EPA label instructions on chemical containers.
- Apply chemicals only under favorable weather conditions.
- Calibrate spray equipment to apply chemicals uniformly and in the correct quantities.
- Prevent chemical leaks from equipment. Check all equipment for leaking hoses, connections and nozzles.
- Use chemicals in riparian management zones with guidance from a trained natural resource professional.
- When applying chemicals not labeled for aquatic use in riparian management zones, use spot-injection or stump treatment methods.
- Avoid applying herbicides in areas where the chemicals can kill stabilizing vegetation on slopes, gullies and other fragile areas subject to erosion that drain into surface water.
- Mix and load chemicals out of riparian management zones and, where practical, in upland areas.
- Rinse spray equipment and discharge rinse water only in areas that are part of the application site.
- Dispose of chemical containers according to label instructions.
Aerial Application
- Hire a licensed aerial applicator. >
- Identify and avoid riparian management zones and surface water to prevent chemicals not labeled for aquatic use from drifting over open water, or from accidentally being applied directly on the water.
RSS