Community must be protected from pesticide drift

Tuesday, 02 April 2002 10:00

"A number of studies have shown pesticide droplets can travel up to 10 km after application. If a pregnant woman, child or chemically sensitive person is living within a 10 km spray zone they should be allowed to make an informed decision to reduce their risk of exposure," said Ben Cole, Chemicals campaigner.

"A number of medical studies have supported a link between pesticide spray drift and adverse health effects. For example a recent US study (Epidemiology 12:148-156) found fetal death was more likely among pregnant mothers who were living within a 14 kilometre area in which commercial pesticide spraying had taken place," said Mr. Cole.

"The regulations are not being written to burden the farmer, but rather they are being written to protect the health of the entire community and the green reputation of the agricultural community."

"TEC is committed to working with the Pesticide Implementation Committee to develop an equitable notification system. The notification scheme is being developed to ensure the farmer and the community can communicate openly with each other. We would hope the NSW Farmers Association has the same view but recent statements would indicate otherwise."