Farmers may use pesticides to…

• Protect crops from, insect pests, weeds and fungal diseases while they are growing;
• Prevent rats, mice, flies and other insects from contaminating foods whilst they are being stored;
• Safeguard human health, by stopping food crops being contaminated by fungi.

However, as pesticides are used to kill unwanted pests, weeds or moulds, they could also harm people, wildlife and the environment. This is why there are strict controls in place over their sale and use. It is up to everyone who is involved with pesticides, whether they are farmers, professional growers or gardeners to ensure they are used safely and effectively.

It is worth remembering that today’s pesticides have been designed so as little as possible is needed and only as a last resort (farmers use about a third less chemicals today than they did in 1983).

Pesticides form a very wide and complex subject. It includes issues like residues in food; human health and safety; effects on wildlife and the environment; and European interests.

Castle Morpeth Borough Council does not control the use of pesticides however we would become involved if there were any possibility of the contamination of a private water supply. Any other contaminated body of water would be dealt with by the Environment Agency.

We would also become involved in the use of pesticides if there were any issues with over spraying and the excess having an adverse affect on someone’s property or health. If you would like any more information on pesticides the website produced by the Pesticides Safety Directorate is very informative, it can be found using the link below.

www.pesticides.gov.uk

Page Date 03/01/08