Australia warning farmers on off-label herbicide use

The Department of Primary Industries (DPI) is urging farmers not to use chemicals off-label during grains harvesting, as the consequences are numerous and often irreparable.

DPI Senior Chemical Standards Officer Dave Rumbold said the department has recently received some concerning reports regarding the off-label use of herbicides, (such as those containing glyphosate or paraquat), by farmers as a desiccant, salvage spray, harvest aid, or for spray topping in some grain crops.

"DPI reminds farmers that they can only use herbicide products that have a specific label direction as a desiccant, salvage spray, harvest aid, or for spray topping in the specific crop that they are planning to treat,” Mr Rumbold said.

"Off label use of herbicides in these situations is absolutely unacceptable as it can lead to issues with grain quality, including germination potential and can result in unacceptable residues that will affect market access.

"When using one of the approved products it is essential that all label directions are followed, such as using the correct application rate and observing the withholding period (WHP) as well as any label restraints, for example the ‘DO NOT’ statements.”

Mr Rumbold stressed that failure to ensure harvested grain is fit for purpose and free of unacceptable residues can lead to significant penalties on growers which may include prosecution and restrictions being placed on where grain can be marketed.

"As well as famers, chemical resellers, agronomists and consultants are also legally obliged to ensure that any advice they provide to their clients complies with these requirements,” Mr Rumbold said.

"Any restrictions on marketing will impact not only the farmer who used the chemical but the entire industry – which will ultimately affect profitability – so it is vital all farmers and their advisors heed this warning and only use products according to label directions”.