Preventing the Off-site Movement of Pesticides in Alfalfa

Off-site movement of pesticides into groundwater or surface water has been detected. The movement of organophosphate insecticides into surface water, and the movement of winter-dormant herbicide sprays into groundwater are the primary concerns for alfalfa. A number of measures are suggested that may be useful to help mitigate these problems, but must be integrated with specific limitations and considerations on each farm. There is no single solution for all cases. A key aspect of controlling offsite movement of pesticides is irrigation management. Growers should be aware of public concerns about this issue and take steps to mitigate pesticide movement, before regulatory steps are taken.