P-288 THE IMPROVEMENT OF PESTICIDE APPLICATION AMONG FARMERS IN SMALL COOPERATIVE GROUPS

Introduction Contaminated water in rivers in Thailand may be linked to agrochemical run-off from farms directly related to the inappropriate application of pesticides, particularly by crops and vegetable growers. Since agrochemical application increases yield and makes crops look good, they satisfy the city’s customers. Spraying crops daily, without proper knowledge, seems to be the norm for the crop’s growers. On the other hand, the effectiveness of crop protection from soil-incorporated herbicide depends on the selection of spray nozzles, droplet size, and soil permeable characteristics. This study aimed at the crop grower’s knowledge of selecting appropriate spray nozzles. Methods This was a cross-sectional study; questionnaires were developed, and 418 farmers were recruited in two agricultural crop-growing areas, Nan and Saraburi provinces. These farmers registered with the agricultural provincial office. Results This study found that 31.5% of the crop farmers used the flood-type nozzles, which is the most effective type, produce large droplets, and are less prone to drift, reducing off-target contamination. At the same time, most crop farmers (63.5%) used the less effective nozzles, flat fan nozzles (43.5.0%), and cone-type nozzles (25.0%). Discussion Inappropriate spraying of herbicide harms the health and safety of the crop’s growers and pollutes rivers. The cause might be the classroom-type training, and its content may not make farmers perceived to have chemical safety issues. The content may cover more on the use of safety tools like appropriate nozzles. Conclusions Thus, this study encourages a workshop on spraying equipment to be provided for crop growers around the country for environmental and health sustainability.