Agricultural Soil and Pesticides

Farmers are invested in healthy soils because they want to grow vigorous crops to produce the most food they can. Pesticides have helped farmers boost production while maintaining healthy soils. Pesticides are used in agriculture to control weeds, insects and diseases. Many farms use integrated pest management techniques that minimize pesticide use.

When pesticides enter the soil environment, many things affect how long the pesticide will last and where it will go, including:

• the ingredients in the pesticide,
• the weather conditions, and
• the soil conditions

Pesticides in agriculture, what can you do?

• Pests can develop resistance to pesticides. Employing an IPM strategy can offer greater long-term success. IPM practices are designed to minimize impacts on the environment.
• Try to use pesticides that are specifically designed for the pest you are trying to control, rather than broad-spectrum pesticides. These are more likely to affect non-target organisms.
• Read the pesticide label, including the "Environmental Hazards" section. Make sure you are using the product properly to minimize the risks to the environment.
• Always dispose of unused pesticides properly.

Additional Resources:

• Herbicide Carryover in Hay, Manure, Compost, and Grass Clippings - Oregon State University
• Soils - Natural Resources Conservation Service
• Agriculture and Pesticides - Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
• Ecological Soil Screening Levels - Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
• Safety Information for Soil Fumigant Handlers - Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
• Implementing Safety Measures for Soil Fumigants - Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
• Soils in Urban Agriculture - University of California, Ag and Natural Resources

If you have questions about this, or any pesticide-related topic, please call NPIC at 800-858-7378 (8:00am - 12:00pm PST Mon.-Fri.), or email us at npic@ace.orst.edu.