The project succeeded in reducing the use of 31 of the 52 pesticides reported by the cooperators and eliminated the use of six products entirely.
Of the 52 pesticides reported by the growers in the programs, use of 26 insecticides was reduced by 2,470 pounds (41%), 14 herbicides were reduced by 572 pounds (29%), and 12 fungicides by 1,572 pounds (57%).
Another dramatic success of the project was to reduce the use of pesticides with moderate to severe leaching potentials by 36% (940 pounds A.I.). All nine of the chemicals rated as high leachers had reduced use in 1997.
The project produced a 47% reduction (966 A.I.) in use of the pesticides previously found in Connecticut groundwater (Keeney, 1991). Non-chemical alternatives and pesticides with less detrimental characteristics were substituted wherever possible.
The farmers who utilized UConn's fertilizer recommendations reduced their nitrogen use by 69 pounds/acre (52%) while grounds keepers reduced their use on turfgrass by 9%.
University of Connecticut Cooperative Extension System and Department of Plant Science, New Haven County Soil and Water Conservation District
Project funded by the Connecticut Department of Environmental Protection (319 funds).
Reprinted from Grower, New England Vegetable and Small Fruit Newsletter, Vol. 98-6, June 1998.
This information was developed for conditions in the Northeast. Use in other geographical areas may be inappropriate.
The information in this material is for educational purposes. The recommendations contained are based on the best available knowledge at the time of printing. Any reference to commercial products, trade or brand names is for information only, and no endorsement or approval is intended. The Cooperative Extension system does not guarantee or warrant the standard of any product referenced or imply approval of the product to the exclusion of others which also may be available.All agrochemicals/pesticides listed are registered for suggested uses in accordance with federal and Connecticut state laws and regulations as of the date of printing. If the information does not agree with current labeling, follow the label instructions. The label is the law.Warning! Agrochemicals/pesticides are dangerous. Read and follow all instructions and safety precautions on labels. Carefully handle and store agrochemicals/pesticides in originally labeled containers immediately in a safe manner and place. Contact the Connecticut Department of Environmental Protection for current regulations.The user of this information assumes all risks for personal injury or property damage.Issued in furtherance of Cooperative Extension work, Acts of May 8 and June 30, 1914, in cooperation with the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Kirklyn M. Kerr, Director, Cooperative Extension System, The University of Connecticut, Storrs. The Connecticut Cooperative Extension System offers its programs to persons regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, age or disability and is an equal opportunity employer.