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A Publication for Vermont Pesticide ApplicatorsVofume 6, lssue 1 June 2004

In This lssue:

tr News from the Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Plant IndustryDivisionPages 1 - 3

.'! News from the University of Vermont, Extension ServicePages 4 - 6

r Update on Ornamental Diseases and the CooperativeAgricultural Pest SurveyPages 7 - If. Wasp and Bee ControlPages9-11

f! Prevention and Management of Pesticide ResistancePages 12 - 13

b Respiratory Protective Devices for PesticidesPages 14 - 16

..l TWO Home Study QuizzesPages 17 and 19

Have questions or comments on this newsletter? Please contactWendy Anderson at (802) 828-3475, or [email protected]

News from the Vermont Agency ofAgriculture, Plant I ndustry Division

PESTICIDE APPLICATOR CORE MANUAL COSTS TOINCREASE

The Core manual that all pesticide applicators and dealersutilize in preparing for their certification and licensing examswill be increasing in price, from $17.00 to $33.00. Thedevelopment and production of the manual by CornellUniversityhas, in the past, been heavilydependenton NewYork State funding. However, like Vermont, New York isexperiencing budget cuts which will necessitate passing anincreased percentage of ma nual development a ndduplication costs along to end users. At this time, the costsof category manuals remain unchanged.

Vermont Agency of Agriculture Web Page - http:i/www.vermontaqriculturelpid.htmExtension Service Web Page - http://www.uvm.edu/extension/directory/vellow.htm

PLANT INDUSTRY DIVISION ANNOUNCES NEW WEBSITE ON PLANT HEALTH RESOURCES

The Agency's new web site on Plant Health Resources isdesigned to be a resource for the public, industryprofessionals, home owners, land managers, farmers,foresters and other state agencies. The site providesinformation on plant health, invasive species, currentinformation regarding pest survey and detection, nurserylaws and licensing, and the import/export of agriculturalproducts. We welcome you to give us feedback on this newwebsite. Please contact Bonnie MacCulloch, Pest SurveyCoordinator, at (802) 828-2431 or bmac@ agr.state.vt.us.

NEW INSECT RESISTANCE LEARNING SITEAVAILABLE TO CORN GROWERS

The Insect Resistance Management Learning Center(IRMLC) is the first online site dedicated to informing corngrowers about the basic, standardized principles andimportance of insect resistance management (lRM). Thisresource has been created under the sponsorship of theU.S. National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) and is apro-active effort by industry to provide corn growers withaccess to information and training on lRM, as well asintegrated pest management (lPM) principles, plus the keycorn pest insects targeted by the various strains oftransgenic corn designed to resist them The site isorganized by several topics, including lRM, ComplianceAssurance Program, Integrated Pest Management (lPM),Corn Borer, and Corn Rootworm. There is an option withineach section to answer a series of questions to evaluateyour knowledge of the topic. The site can be accessed at:http:ilncga. com /biotec hno logy/lRM Ce nter/ind ex. h tm

EPA CHOOSES N.METHYL CARBAMATES FORCUMU LATIVE RISK ASSESSMENT

EPA has identified the pesticides it will review together in acum u lative risk assessm ent on N- m ethyl carb am ates. W iththe passage of the Food Quality Protection Act (FQPA)

(Continued on page 2)

Pesticide Applicator Report - Page 2

l{ews from the Agency of Agriculture,Plant Industry Division

in 'l 996, EPA was ordered to assess the cumulative toxiceffects of pesticides that have common mechanisms oftoxicity, paying special attention to providing adequateprotection to infants and children. When performing a

cumulative risk assessment, EPA considers all non-occupational exposu res to pesticides through dietarysources, drinking water, home, garden and recreationaluses, and pet care. Following the assessment, EPAdetermines if products need to be cancelled, specific usepatterns eliminated, or label language amended toincorporate enhanced safety precautions needed to protecthuman health and the environment. The followinochemicals will be reviewed:

- Aldicarb (Temik)- Aldoxycarb (Standak)- Carbaryl (Sevin)- Carbofuran (Furadan)- Formetanate HCI (Carzol, Dicarzol)- Methiocarb (Draza, Mesurol)- Methomyl (Lannate)- Oxamyl (Vydate L)- Pirimcarb (Pirimor, Rapid)- Propoxur (Baygon, Blattanex)- Thiodicarb (Larvin)

These products were selected because they display a

comm on mechanism of toxicity (acetylcholinesteraseinhibition), have current registrations, and are expected tohave quantitatively signifi cantexposure scenarios. The EPAdecided to exclude two othertypes of carbamate chemicals- thiocarbamate and dithiocarbamate - because they actthrough a separate mechanism of toxicity. EPA plans tohave the draftcumulative risk assessment reportcompletedby spring 2005. You can follow EPA's pesticide-relatedactivities by subscribing to the Agency's Pesticide ProgramUpdate (see below).

EPA PESTICIDE PROGRAM UPDATES AVAILABLEON FREE LISTSERVE

EPA distributes its Pesticide Program Updates to externalstakeholders and citizens who have expressed an interestin Office of Pesticide Program (OPP) activities anddecisions. The Agency has established an electronic listserve for people who want to keep abreast of pesticideissues and decisions. This update service is part of EPA'scontinuing effort to improve public access to Federalpesticide info rm ation.

To subscribe to EPA's automated mailing list, visit:http://www.epa.govloppfead l lcbics b_page/form /form .htm I

(Note: there is an underscore between "csb" and "page".)

For general questions on pesticides and pesticidepoisoning prevention, contact the National PesticideI nformation Ce nter (N P I C ), toll-free, at: 1 -800-858 -7 37 8, byE-mail at [email protected], or by visiting their website at:http:iln pic. orst. ed u

For information about ongoing activities in the Office ofPesticide Programs, visit the OPP homepageat: htlp-#\rywlry.Cle. s ovipest ici d eg

cHROMATED COppER ARSENATE (CCA) CAN NOLONGER BE USED TO TREAT LUMBER INTENDED

FOR CONSUMER USE

Chromated copper arsenate (CCA) is used to protect woodfrom insect attack and decay and is the most widely usedwood preservative. On February 12, 2002, the EPAannounced a voluntary decision by the industry todiscontinue the consumer uses of CCA by December 31,2003. The discontinued uses include wood(dimensional lumber) used in play structures, decks,picn ic tables, landscaping timbers, residential fencin g,patios, and walkw ays/boardwalks.

While EPA has not concluded there is an unreasonablerisk to the public from these products, EPA believes thatany reduction in exposure to arsenic, a known humancarcinogen, is desirable. Consumers wishing to reduceexposure to CCA in their residential environment from theirdeck or playset, can apply oil-based, semi-transparentstain on a regular basis (once everyyearor two dependingon wear or weathering of the wood). The Agency iscontinu ing its risk assessm ent of CCA and at the end of therisk assessment will make decisions about future use of

Two chemical alternatives to CCA are alkaline copperquaternary (ACa) and copper boron azole (CBA)which arenot widely used at the moment. These alternatives mustalso undergo risk assessment in the future. Woodtreatment facilities will have to retool in order to usealternative chemicals and the phaseout will allow facilitiesto make the necessary changes in their operations.

After January 1,2004, it became be illegal totreat wood intended for consumer use with CGAalthough wood treated legally before that date maycontinue to be sold to consumers until supplies areexhausted.

Plant Indusn y Division

NO MORE IPECAC! AMERICAN ACADEMY OFPEDIATRICS ISSUES NEW GUIDELINES

Annie MacMillan, Agrichemical Toxicologist

Parents have long been told to keep a small bottle of syrupof lpecac in the house to induce vomiting in case theirchildren accidentally swallow a poisonous substance.

However, in a policy statement issued in the November2003 issue of Pediatrics, the American Academy ofPediatrics (AAP) is recommending that parents don't uselpecac any longer because it's not an effective treatment forpoisoning.

"Research over the last 10 years has shown that whensomeone vomits, the stomach is not completely emptied,"says Dr. Milton Tenenbein, a member of the AAP'sCommitteeon Injury, Violence and Poison Prevention. And,he says, the material that tends to stay in the stomach isexactly the type of thing that needs to be expelled, such aso ills.

Instead, the pediatric group is emphasizing poisonprevention, and telling parents and caregivers to call theirlocaf poison control center - (800) 222-1222 -- if theysuspect a child has ingested a toxic or poisonoussubstance. The committee does NOT recommendreplacing lpecac with activated charcoal.

What can consumers do to protect children from pesticide-related poisonings?

A survey by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agencyregarding pesticide use in and around the home revealedalmost half of all households with children younger than 5had at least one pesticide stored in an unlocked cabinet,and less than 4 feet off the ground within reach of children.The survey also found 75 percent of households withoutchildren younger than 5 also stored one pesticide withinreach of children. This number is especially significantbecause 13 percent of all pesticide poisonings occur inhomes other than the child's. Adults should take thefollowing steps to safeguard children from exposures topesticides:

!l Always store pesticides away from children's reach in alocked cabinet or garden shed.

ta Read the label first, and follow the directions to the letter,including all precautions and restrictions.

ar Before applying pesticides (indoors and outdoors),remove children and theirtoys from the area and keep themaway until it is dry or as recommended by the label.

News from the Agency of Agricultare,

?! Never leave pesticides unattended when you are usingthem - not even for a few minutes.

"\] Never transfer pesticides to other containers thatchildren may associate with food or drink.

?& Use child-resistant packaging properly by closing thecontainer tightly after use.

Alert others to the potential hazards of toxic chemicals,especia lly grandparents an d ca regive rs.

There once was a mayfly named DaveWho emerged on the crest of a wave

Though hardy and stoutAnd admired by trout

He was squashed by an ignorant knave.

PLANT INDUSTRY DIVISION PESTICIDE CONTACTS802-828-2431

http:i/www.verm onta gricu lturelpid . htm

f& Phil Benedict - Division Director

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Robert Achilles - Agricultural Engineer, 828-6510Wendy Anderson - Pesticide Certification and Training

Program Coord inator, 828-347 5

Jeff Comstock - Soil Scientist, 828-3473Bethany Creaser - Plant Industry Field Agent -

Northeastern W, 873-3028Gary Giguere - Pesticide Research and Information

Specialist. 828-6531Dominique Golliot - Plant Industry Field Agent -

Southwestem VT, 247 -0201Douglas Johnstone - Plant Industry Field Agent -

Southeastern VT, 952-9245Jim Leland - Agrichemical Program Supervisor, B2B-3478Bonnie MacCulloch - State Pest Survey Coordinator,

828-1246Annie MacMillan - Agrichemical Toxicologist, Worker

Protection Standa rds Prog ram Coord inator, B2B -34T g

Steve Parise - Apiculturist and Plant Industry Field Agent,Southwestem VT, 948-261 5

Scott Pfister - Plant Pathologist, 828-3481Andy Squires - Plant Industry Field Agent -

Northwestern VT, 434-2533David Tremblay - Plant Industry Field Agent -

Central Eastem VT, 496-7150

Jon Turmel - State Entomolooist. 828-3490

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HOW MUCH DO WE KNOW ABOUT CORNROOTWORM IN VERMONT?

A Summary of The Vermont CornRootworm IPM Project

Sid BosworthExtension and Research Forage Agronomist

Plant and So/ Sclence DepartmentUniversitv of Vermont

Over the past four years, the University of Vermont hasbeen involved in a project to evaluate the presence andimpact of the Western Corn Rootworm (WCR) andNorthern Corn Rootworm (NCR) on field corn grown inVermont. The objectives of the project were as follows:

1. Assess the population levels of W CR and NCR adultbeetles;2. Determine the acreage of field corn that is aboveeconomic threshold for corn rootworm;3. Compare two scouting methods for assessing cornrootworm;4. Provide information about IPM for corn rootworm toproducers; and,5. Assess attitudes of Vermont farmers concernino IPMmethods for managing corn rootworm.

Objectives 1-2 - ln order to assess population levelsand determine how many fields were above economicthreshold, data was collected over a four-year period(2000 to 2003) from over 90 fields in six counties(Addison, Caledonia, Chittenden, Franklin, Orange, andW indsor) by various independent and dealer cropconsultants. All of these fields had been in corn for twoor more years prior to evaluation.

What we found * Of the ninety fields monitored, only15% were at or above economic threshold for cornrootworm (a population level that would warrant a pestmanagement decision). Most of the fields were farbelow threshold. In addition, this low percentageseemed to be consistent every year across the variousparts of Vermont in which we monitored.

News from the University of VermontExtension Service

Most of the adult beetles we found were the Northerntype. Less than 20oh of the adults monitored wereWestern. This is good news since the Western speciesis more aggressive and usually causes greater injurythan the Northern species. In fact, in the scoutingprocedures for determining threshold levels, we usedwhat is called a WCR equivalence in which '1 WCR adult= 2 NCR adults.

Objective 3 - In 2000 and2001, we evaluated twodifferent scoutingmethods: 1) the standard"visual" method and 2) asticky trap method. Thestandard method relies onvisual assessment as youwalk through the field.Normally, you startscouting when the cornbegins silking (this is whenthe adults emerge aspupae from the soil) andyou monitor the field approximately once per week forthree or four more weeks (either until you reachthreshold or, if below threshold, when the populationpeaks and starts to decline.) Typically, you try to look atup to 55 plants throughout the field and calculate anaverage number of beetles per plant to determinethreshold. We used the threshold recommended byCornell of 1 WCR or 2 NCR per plant. For large uniformfields, we used a modified method called "SequentialSampling" which reduced the time needed in the field.

The second method we used is a sticky trap method inwhich yellow sticky traps are placed throughout the fieldjust before silking and beetles are counted once perweek for three or four weeks. We were interested in thismethod because it seemed to be more rapid andaccurate. Also, since the beetles stick to the trap, it tookless stealth than the visual method in which you have to"sneak" up to the plants or else the beetles drop to theground as soon as they feel an unusual vibration. Atypical 10 to'l 5 acre field would have 8 to 10 trapsplaced just above the ear. The threshold for thismethod was based on 20 WCR equivalence per trap perweek.

What we found - We thought that once the traps wereup, it would be quicker to move through the fieldcounting beetles compared to the standard method.However, in many of the fields, traps had to be replaced

after a week or two due to major rainstorms whichwashed away the sticky substance or when a lot of non-rootworm insects stuck and cluttered the traps making itdifficult to count accurately. As a result, total scoutingtime was about twice as much using the sticky traps ascompared to the Cornell Sequential Sampling method.Our conclusion was that, although the sticky trapmethod required less skill on the part of the scout, theincreased costs due to both the purchase of the trapsand the additional time to properly use them was toomuch compared to the visual method.

Tolal Time Eequ$red to Condutl Trc'o nilethsdsof S*outlng for Crm Rootworms

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Farms

Objectives 4 and 5 - During winter IPM meetings heldthroughout Vermont in February 2004, we assessedfarmer awareness of these insects as well as theirmanagement practices. Generally, farmers were askedto answer a series of questions as part of a presentationconcerning corn rootworm and other corn pests.

What we found - About 48o/o of the farmers respondingto the survey indicated that they "scouted" theircornfields for either Northern and/or Western CornRootworm the previous year (representingapproximately 27o/o of the corn acreage). Only 11% ofthe farmer respondents indicated that they had appliedan insecticide the year before on some of their acreage(5% of the corn acreage represented in the surveyreceived an insecticide for treating corn rootworm in2003). Of the farmers that applied an insecticide, 57o/o

based their decision on past symptoms in those fields(ie., goosenecking) and 43oh also based their decisionon scouting information of the previous year. For thiscoming season, 87o/o of the farmers surveyed statedthat they would be scouting for goosenecking symptomsand 760/o would be lookinq for adult beetles.

Pesticide A

News from the University of VermontExtension Service

We know that one of the most effective and economicalmethods of controlling corn rootworms is crop rotation.These insects only have corn as a host and they laytheir eggs at the base of the plant; therefore, plantinganother crop the next year breaks the cycledramatically. Of the total acreage in the survey, about18% is rotated each year. lf extrapolated to theapproximately 95,000 acres grown in Vermont, there are17,10O acres rotated each year helping to break thecorn rootworm life cycle.

BROWN ROOT ROT OF ALFALFA:A NEW DISEASE FOR VERMONT?

Ann HazelriggCoordinator of the Plant Diagnostic Clinic & Pesticide

Applicator Training programUniversity of Vermont Extension

Brown root rot of alfalfa, caused by the fungus Phomasclerotiodes, was detected this past growing season inthe Miner Institute research plots across LakeChamplain in Chazy, NY. This disease has beenreported in several northern states and Canada and hasbeen associated with stand decline of alfalfa and otherforage plants. Unfortunately, the fungus is very welladapted to the cold temperatures common in ourVermont winters and springs. Additionally, thispathogen not only attacks alfalfa but also infects redclover, sweet clover, white clover, bird's foot trefoil andalsike clover.

The pathogen overwinters on crop debris and cansurvive many years in dry soil. The root rotting funguscan be spread by wind, machinery or grazing animals.Symptoms of the disease do not usually appear untilthree (3) years after seeding. Infected plants begingrowth in the spring but start to lose vigor as the time forthe first cutting approaches. The first tissues to showdiscoloration and rot are the feeder roots and nitrogenfixing nodules. Symptoms vary from small circular darklesions to large rotted taproots. Crowns and lower stemtissues can also be infected although the disease ismainly a root pathogen.

(Continued on Page 6)


Figure 1. Three year-old roots showing severesecondary roots caused by brown root rot.

rot of the tap and

Figure 2, Three year-old plants affected by brown root rot. Plant onright is dead with tap root completely rotted. Plant on left has a darkbrown girdling lesion on the tap root and was slow to produce springgrowttr. Phofos: Fred Gray, University of Vtt\roming

Fruiting bodies of the fungus may be present as tinyblack dots on the root surfaces. Infection and decaytake place in the late fall through early spring (most rootinfection likely occurs between 35-40 degrees F.) whilethe plants are dormant. The fungus slows its growthduring the summer's warmer temperatures. Winterkill, asymptom of brown root rot that is generally noticed in

early spring, can vary from slight to severe.

Positive identification of brown root rot usually requiresmicroscopic observation and fungal isolation frominfected tissue. Recently, a molecular test has beendeveloped so researchers can determine if plants areinfected within a m atter of hou rs.

Managing the disease includes using crop rotation withnon-susceptible crops, providing appropriate fertility,avoiding late cuttings and selecting varieties lesssusceptible to winter injury.

Neurs from the University of VermontExtension Service

Brown root rot may already be an undiagnosed problemin Vermont alfalfa fields. In 2004, UVM Extension wouldlike to do a systematic survey of fields to determine thepresence of the pathogen and its potential im pact onalfalfa stand decline. lf you have noticed any of thesymptoms of the disease or if you have fields withsevere winter damage or stand decline, please contactAnn Hazelrigg at 656-0493 or [email protected] researchers have kindly offered to help with thediagnosis of Verm ont alfalfa fields to see howwidespread the disease may be. We will report theresults of our testing in a future newsletter.

Send intact alfalfa roots with suspicious lesions to:Plant Diagnostic Clinic, Hills Building, 105 CarriganDrive, UVM, Burlington, VT 05405. Include 8-10plants with crowns in a zip-lock plastic bag withmoist towels. Precise location of the field whereyou collected plants is essential information.

Refe re nces:Gray, F, C. Hollingsworth, D. Koch, R. Groose, T.Heald.2004. BrownRoot Rot of Alfalfa. Plant Sciences Timelv lnformation No. 1.University of Wyoming.

UVM EXTENSION CONTACTShttp : /lwww. u v m. ed u/exte n s i on/d irecto ry/yel I ow. ht m

This is a partial list. For information about specialists in yourregion, call 656-2630, or check the Extension on-line directoryat the above web address.

A MASTER GARDENER HOTLINE . 800.639.2230

l! Lorra ine Berkett, IPM S pecialist656-26 30

..! Sid Bosworth, Agronomist656-04 78

tr Jeff Carter, Field and Forage Specialist388-4969

ll Heather Darby, Agronomist - Northeast Region524-6502.X206

ll Elena Garcia, Tree Fruit Specialist656-2824

|l Vern Grubinger, Berries and Vegetables Specialist257 -7 967

l& Ann Hazelrigg, Plant Diagnostic Clinic, PAT656-0493

}} Bill Jokela, Soils Specialist656-0480

ar Rick LeVitre, Dairy Specialist773-3349

}! Leonard Perry, Greenhouse and Nursery Specialist656-0479

}} Margaret Skinner, Entomologist656-5440

EMERALD ASH BORER

In the May 2003issue of thePesticide ApplicatorReport, we reportedon a new exoticInsect pest, theemerald ash borer.

New information is now available on this aggresstveinvader including news of the expanded infestailon andadditionalquarantine regulations. The Emerald ash borer(EAB), Agrilus planipennis Fairmaire, was first identified inDetroit, Michigan and neighboring Ontario, Canada in2002. This insect is native to parts of Asia, China, Koreaand Japan. Known hosts include many species of ash,Fraxlnus spp.

EAB adults are slender, elongate, metallic coppery_greenbeetles, no greater lhan Tz inch long. Larvae are white,flat, slender, and likeall Agrilus species.have a pair of brown,pincer-likeappendages on thelast abdominalsegment. The larvalhead is relativelysm all, brown, andretracted inside theenlarged prothorax.

Adults are actlve from mid-May to earlyAugust. Eggs arelaid on the bark surface and/or inside bark cracks andcrevices, usually from early June to late July. Larvaeactively feed in the cambial regions of the trunk from mid-June to mid-October. EAB overwinters as fully grownlarvae in pupal cells constructed in the outer sapwood or

in the bark. Mostrarvae pupate thefollowing spring duringlate April and Mayalthough someindividuals may requiretwo years to completedevelopment. Adultemergence holes aretypically D-shaped.

Signs and symptoms of EAB are difficult to detect durinothe first year of infestation. The D_shaped aOuiiemergence holes appear along the trunk and mainbranches the summer following the initial attack. ln the

Pesticide Applicator Report _ page 7

Update on Ornamentat Diseases andthe Cooperati.yg Agrycuttural pesf Survey

Bonnie MacCulloch, pest Survey CoordinatorVermont Agency of Agriculture, plant Industrv Division

second year of attack, less foliage develops ano crownsappear thinner, and the sapwood forms callus tissuearound the larval galleries which can result in longitudinalbark splits.

Epicorm ic branching will oftendevelop along the main trunk andon some branches. ln the thirdyear of attack many branches willhave died, titfle foliage will bepresent, and exit holes will befound throughout the trunk. Barksplitting and epicormic branchinqrs common.

In Michigan and Ontario, EAB hasinfested and killed ash trees inboth open settings and insidewoodlots. Tree death usually

occurs in 3 years but trees could die in as litfle as 1 to 2years. Infested trees can be as small as 4 cm in diameterand as large as a m ature forest tree over 1 m in diameter.

In August 2003, the Michigan Department of Agricultureenacted an interior state quarantine on 13 Ml counties:Livingston, Macomb, Monroe, Oakland, Washtenaw,Wayne, Genesee, Ingham, Jackson, Lapeer, Lenawee,Shiawassee and St. Clair. On 25 March 2004 thisquarantine was expanded to include g_ouflier sites in 5more counties (Berrien, Calhoun, Eaton, Kent andSaginaw). Under the quarantine, it is illegal to move ashtrees, branches, lumber, firewood and other materialsfrom the quarantined counties, unless the material ischipped to less than one inch in diameter. To date, EABhas killed or damaged almost six million ash trees in Mlalone @). During the summer of2003, three more states reported finding EAB; Ohio,Maryland and Virginia.

For more inform ation please visit us on the web:on .com

SUDDEN OAK DEATH

Sudden Oak Death is a recently recognized disease thatis killing oaks and other plant species in the western U.S.First noticed in 19g5, the disease has been confirmed inthe coastal areas north and south of San Francisco, andin a relatively remote location in southwestern Oregon.Ih" fungal pathogen responsible for the disease,Phytophthora ramorLlm, is also found in Germany andDenmark, where it is causing significant damage on


Update on Qrnamental Diseases andthe Cooperative Agricultural Pest Survey

Rhododendron and Viburnum. In the U.S. this diseasehas been found in California, Oregon and most recently in

Florida. ln the eastern U.S., at least two eastern oakspecies, northern pin oak (Quercus palustrls) and northernred oak (Quercus rubra), are highly susceptible to thedisease when lab-inoculated with the pathogen. Forestland managers nationwide should be aware of thesymptoms of sudden oak death, and should contacta pestmanagement specialist if they suspect that the disease is

present in a new location.

There are two categories of hosts for P. ramorum: barkcanker hosts and foliar hosts. The bark canker hosts aretanoaks and oaks that become infected on the trunks.Foliar hosts are bay laurel, rhododendrons, bigleaf maple,and several others, that become infected on the leavesand small branches. While the bark cankers often lead tomortality in tanoaks and oaks, foliar hosts onlyoccasionally die from P. ramorum infection.

The USDA, Anim al Plant Health Inspection Service(APHIS) currently recognizes 28 plant species as beingnatural hosts for P. ramorum and thus subject to federalregulation. This pathogen has also reportedly beenisolated from several other plant species. To see a

complete listing of known host species visit:h ttp : i/www. a p h is.u s d a.s qvjblg.ltsp mlEeq/.

Symptoms on affected hosts varyconsiderably byspeciesand it is difficult to differentiate P. ramorum-infected plantsfrom those infected by other pathogens. Bark cankerhosts have large cankers on the trunk or main stemaccompanied by browning of leaves. Infected trees maybe infested with ambrosia beetles, bark beetles andsapwood rotting fungus. Infection on foliar hosts is

indicated by dark grey-to-brown lesions with indistinctedges. These lesions can occur anywhere on the leafblade, in vasculartissue, oron the petiole. Petiole lesionsare often accompanied by stem lesions. Some hosts withleaf lesions defoliate and eventually show twig dieback.

Update: March 26, 2004-The U.S. Department ofAgriculture, APHIS recently announced that it is regulatingthe interstate movement of Phytopthora ramorum host andassociated host plants from all California nurseries.Regulating P. ramorum is partof the APHIS detection andmanagement program. Since it first appeared in coastalCalifornia in 1995, the disease is known to affect 59different hosts and associated hostspecies. Currently, 12California counties are regulated for the disease.

COOPERATIVE AGRIC U LTU RE PESTSURVEY (CAPS)

The Cooperative Agricu ltu re Pest S u rvey (CAPS) prog ramis a combined effort by Federal and State agriculturalorganizations to conduct surveillance, detection, andmonitoring of introduced agriculture, forest, and naturalresource pests. As part of the Vermont CAPS program,this summer we will be collaborating with the University ofVermont and the Agency of Natural Resources,Department of Forests, Parks and Recreation to conductsurvey and detection activities for emerald ash borer andsudden oak death throughout the state. To learn moreolease visit us on the web:http:llwww.ve rm o ntagricultu re.com ICAPS/index.htm i

ADDITIONAL CAPS RESOURCES

UVM Plant Diagnostic Clinic - aids Vermontgreenhouses, farms and orchards by assisting in theidentification and control of pests and diseases.http : ii pss.u vm. e d ulp d/pd cl

Vermont Master Gardeners- promote successful, safe,and environmentally prudent home horticulture practicesthrough education and community activities. HotlineNumber - 800-639-2230.http://www.uv@

Invasive PlantAtlas of New England- a comprehensiveweb-accessible database of invasive and potentiallyinvasive plants in New England that will be continuallyupdated by a network of professionals and trainedvolun teers. http :llinvasives. eeb.ucon n. ed u/i pane/

USDA APHIS Plant Protection and Quarantine (PPO) -

The Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS)is responsible for protecting and promoting U.S.agricultural health, administering the Animal Welfare Act,and carrying out wildlife damage management activities.http://wwvr. a phis.u sd a.qov/p pql

Northeastern Area State and Private Forestry-leadsand helps support sustainable forest management anduse across the landscape.http://www. na.fs.fqd.u sljlde x. htm

National Plant Board- mem bers work cooperatively witha number of different organizations to prevent the entry ofnew pests and diseases into the country.http :i/www. aphis.usda.cov/n pbi

Pesticide Applicator Report - Paqe 9

asps and bees are beneficial insects, althoughtheyare generallyconsidered to be pests becauseof their ability to sting. Wasps, in particular, can

become a problem in autumn when they may disrupt manyoutdoor activities. W hile both social wasos and bees live incolonies ruled by queens and maintained byworkers, theylook and behave differently. lt is important to distinguishbetween these insects because different methods may benecessary to control them if they become a nuisance.

APPEARANCE

Wasps have a slender body with a narrow waist, slender,cylindrical legs, and appear smoothed-skinned and shiny.Yellowjackets, baldfaced hornets, and paper wasps are themost common types of wasps encountered by people.

Yellowjacket Baldfaced Hornel

Paper Wasp

Bees are robust-bodied and very hairy compared withwasps. Their hind legs are flattened for collecting andtransporting pollen. Bees are important pollinators. Honeybees are responsible for more than 80% of the pollinationrequired by most fruits, legumes, and vegetable seedplants as well as many ornamentals that are grown in ourlandscapes. Bumble bees are important pollinators ofnative prairie plants.

Bumble BeeHoney Bee

Wasp and Bee Control

NESTING SITES

Yellowjackets, baldfaced hornets, and paper waspsmake nests from a papery pulp comprised of chewed-upwood fibers mixed with saliva. Yellowjacket and baldfacedhornet nests consist of a series of rounded combs stackedin tiers. These combs are covered by an envelopeconsisting of several layers of pulp. Paper wasps constructonly one comb without any protective envelope.

Yellowjackets commonly build nests below ground in oldrodent burrows or other cavities. They can also build nestsin trees, shrubs, under eaves, and inside attics or wallvoids. Baldfaced hornets commonly build nests in theopen in trees as well as under eaves and along the sidesof buildings.

Paper wasps build nests under any horizontal surface andare comm only found on limbs, overhangs, eaves ofbuildings, beams and supports in attics, garages, barns,sheds, and other similar places.

Honey bees make a series of vertical honey combs madeof wax. Their colonies are mostly in manufactured hives butthey do occasionally nest in cavities in large trees, voids inbuilding walls, or other protected areas.

Bumble bees use old mice burrows, cavities in buildings,and other locations to make their nests. Like honev bees.bumble bees make cells of wax.

LIFE CYCLE OF WASPS AND BEES

Wasps and bumble bees have annual colonies that lastfor only one year. The colony dies in the fall with only thenewly produced queens surviving the winter. The newqueens leave the ir nests du ring late sum mer an d m ate withmales. The queens then seek out overwintering sites, suchas under loose bark, in rotted logs, undersiding or tile, andin other small crevices and spaces, where they becomedorm ant. These queens become active the following springwhen temperatures increase. They search for favorablenesting sites to construct new nests. They do not reuse oldnests.

Honey bees are perennial insects with colonies thatsurvive more than one year. Honey bees form a clusterwhen hive temperatures approach 57" F. As thetemperature drops, the cluster of bees becomes morecompact. Bees inside this mass consume honey andgenerate heat so that those in the cluster do not freeze. Aslong as honey is available in the cluster, a strong colonycan withstand temperatures down to -30' F or lower forextended periods.



CONTROL OF NESTS

The first step in wasp or bee control is to correctly identifythe insect and locate its nesting site.

WASP NESTS: The besttime of the yearto control waspsis in June after the queen has established her colony andwhile the colony is still small. But because nests are small,they are also harder to find. The best time of the day tocontrol wasp nests is at night, when they are less active. Attemperatures below 50' F, wasps have difficulty flying.Never seala wasp nest until you are sure there are nosurviving wasps inside. lf a nest is not discovered untilfall, control may be unnecessary as imminent freezingtemperatures will kill the colony.

Mechanical control without insecticides is possible forsmall, exposed nests. At night, cover the nest with a large,heavy, plastic bag and seal it shut. Cut the nest from thetree and freeze it or let the bag sit in the sun, which will killthe wasps inside in a day or two. Use caution: there is

more risk involved in this procedure than in spraying theNESI.

When yellowjackets are found nesting in the ground, applyan insecticide dustto the nest opening. Be sure you use aproduct that is labeled for use on lawns or soil. Dusts aremore effective than liquid insecticides because liquids donot always reach the nest. After you are sure all the waspshave been exterminated, cover the nest entrance with soil.

The most challenging nests to control are those that areconcealed in voids behind walls or in attics. Often, the onlyevidence of the nest is wasps flying back and forth througha crack or hole in the home.

Aerosol insecticides usually do not work very well againsthidden nests. The best method is to apply a smallamountof insecticidal dust. You may need to drill small (about 1/8inch) holes to deliver the insecticide into the nest area.

Concealed nests that are treated in the fall may forcewasps into the home. lf there is no immediate danger, it

may be best to wait until freezing tem peratures kill the nest.Do not seal the nest entrance until you are sure all waspsare dead. Closing the nest too early can force su rvivors intothe home or structure. When the wasps are dead, seal theentrance with caulk or something similar to prevent a newwasp queen from using the same entrance to build a newnest the following year.

Wasp nests found during winter or early spring are oldnests from the previous summer. There are no live waspsin the nest; they have already left the nest or died inside it.

The nest can be safely removed and disposed of if desired.

Old nests are not reused by wasps, so there is no risk ifone is left. However scavengers, such as carpet beetles,are attracted to old nests and may become a nuisance ifthe nest is in your home.

HONEY BEE NESTS: Honeybees are normallyhoused in

manufactured hives and managed by beekeepers. In someinstances wild colonies of honey bees may nest in hollowtrees or in wall voids. W ild colonies can be treated with thesame insecticides and methods as described for exposedor concealed wasp nests. Combs inside buildings must beremoved and destroyed to avoid problems withhoney-stained damage to walls, secondary pest problemssuch as carpet beetles, and attracting bee swarms in thefuture. Never use honey or wax from colonies that havebeen treated with an insecticide (see "Removing ProblemHoney Bees from Structures" below).

BUMBLE BEE NESTS: When a bumble bee nest is anuisance, treat it with the same insecticides and methodsas described for ground-nesting or concealed wasp nests.

Always read pesticide labels carefully before buyingand again before using the product. The availabilityand use of particular pesticides may change from yearto year. The label is the final authority on how you maylegally use any pesticide.

REMOVING HONEY BEE SWARMS

In the spring and early summer, strong honey bee colonieswill occasionally produce swarms. Swarming is precipitatedby crowding and congestion in the nest as the colonyrapidly expands its population. When colonies swarm, theold queen and 40-60 percent of the bees leave the parentcolony and cluster on a tree limb or other convenient site.Colonies also may produce smaller secondary swarmswhich contain fewer bees and a newly emerged virginqueen. Honey bee swarms pose little hazard to humansunless the bees are profoundly disturbed. They haveneither young nor food to protect, and their defensiveinstincts are minimal. Typically, a swarm will remainclustered where it lands for one to three days. During thistime, scout bees will search for suitable nest sites. Whena site is found, the swarm will move to the new nestsite.While a swarm remains, do not operate vibratingequipment near them. Lawn mowers, weed eaters, chainsaws and other power tools should not be used until theswarm has left or been removed.

lf a swarm lands in a remote site, it should be left alone.When a swarm lands in a homeowner's yard or publicplace, a beekeeper can be called to remove the bees.Honey bee swarms are seeking a nesting site. Abeekeeper can capture them by providing an empty

Pesticide A


beehive and shaking the bees onto the ground at theentrance. The bees will enter the hive body and begin nestconstruction in most cases. The beekeeper may need toleave the hive at the site until dusk to allow all of the beesto enter the hive.

lf a beekeeper cannot be located, or if the swarm is in ahightraffic area, the bees can be destroyed, if necessary,by spraying them with a solution of one cup of liquiddishwashing detergent dissolved in a gallon of water. Asthe outside layer of bees falls away, the inner layers willneed to be sprayed. Bees are rendered unable to fly assoon as they contact the solution. Soapy water kills thebees by suffocating them, and bees destroyed by thismethod do not become defensive. Insecticides are notrecommended to destroy a swarm because they cancause the bees to become defensive.

REMOVING PROBLEM HONEY BEES FROM VOIDSPACES IN STRUCTURES

The first step in dealing with a problem nest located in avoid space in a structure is to be sure you have correctlyidentified the insect. Yellowjacket wasps also are cavitynesters and are frequently confused with honey bees.

Once you are sure you are dealing with a honey bee nest,the safest, quickest and easiest way to eliminate theproblem is to destroy the nest prior to removal. lt isimportant to exterminate a colony when all bees are in thenest (dawn or dusk). lf colonies are destroyed duringdaylight, many foragers will be in the field and can return tocause problems. The best season to destroy problem nestsis in the early spring when stored food reserves and colonypopulation are lowest.

Apply an insecticide dust to the entry/exit areas. Carbaryl(Sevin@) dust is readily available and is labeled fordestroying problem bees. In most cases, repeatapplications of the insecticide will be necessary. Again, itis best to apply the product after dark to avoid being stungby returning foragers or nest members that respond to anydisturbance. (While soapy water is effective on a swarm,it is not very effective in a nest as the wax combs preventadequate penetration.)

Do not attempt to expose the nest until all, or nearly all,of the adult population are killed. Once you are sure all,or most, of the colony has been destroyed, expose the waxcomb with its honey and remove it. Honey bee nests areoften extensive and may contain 100 or more pounds ofhoney, pollen and beeswax. Without live bees present tocontrol nest temperature, honey may leak from the comband drip from walls or ceilings causing extensive structuraldamage. Dead bees and brood will decay and produce

strong odors. Honey, pollen and wax combs will be anattractive food source for rodents, wax moths and a varietyof other nuisance insects such as ants and dermestidbeetles. lf colonies are poisoned, do not use the honey orwax. Nest materials should be removed and burned orburied in a manner that does not allow other bees accessto the poisoned materials.

Prevention and Maintenance: Following destruction ofthe colony and removal of the nest, it is important to fill thecavity with insulating foam or other appropriate materials tomake the site inaccessible to future swarms. Although thenest itself has been removed, an old nest site will haveodors that are highly attractive to other bees. In addition tofilling the cavity, entry/exit areas and other cracks in thestructure should be carefully sealed with caulk. Honey beesseeking a nesting site will not create a cavity or entrance;instead, they seek an existing cavity with an entrance.Preventive maintenance of structures will protect them fromhoney bee occupation. Remember - do not close or sealoff entrances untilthe insects have been killed orthey maybe forced into the structure.

Responsibility for structural repairs should be agreedupon before the job of removing the hive has begun.

Sources:

al, University of Nebraska, Lincoln, CooperativeExtension. 1996. Stinging Wasps and Bees.Fact sheet G88-891-A.

ar, University of Minnesota Extension Service.1996. Wasp and Bee Control. Fact sheet PM-1671.

a! University of Delaware Extension Service. 1996. StingingInsect Control. Fact sheet HYG-06.

b& Mid-Atlantic Apicultural Research & Extension Consortium.2000. Stinging Insect Control. MAAREC Publication 4.4.

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Prevention and Management of Pesticfde Res istanceesticide resistance can become a oroblem wnenthe same chemicals are used over and over tocontrol a particular insect, weed or fungal pest. Aftera period of time, the pest may develop resistance to

a chemical so that the chemical no longer effectivelycontrols the pest at the same rate. Higher rates and morefrequent applications then become necessary until,eventually, the chem ical provides litile or no control.Resistance to pesticides is not a new problem. The firstreport of insects resistant to insecticides was in 1908; ofplant pathogens resistant to fungicides in 1940; and, ofweeds resistant to herbicides (triazines) in 1968.Obviously, a loss of effective pesticide options could haveimportant economic and environmental consequences tothe agricultural and pest control industry. And, given thehigh costs associated with pesticide development andregistration, the potential for the replacement of pesticideslost due to pest resistance decreases.

What is pesticide resistance and how does resistancedevelop in a pestpopulation? Pesticide resistance istheinherited ability of an organism to survive a pesticide dosethat kills the native popu lation of that species. Basically, inany given pest population, there is a small number ofindividuals that posses the genetic material that allowsthem to survive when exposed to a pesticide. Thesesurvivors then reproduce, passing on their resistant genesto their offspring and resulting in ever larger populations ofresistant pests. lf the same pesticide continues to beapplied in a given situation, the percentage of the pestpopulation which is resistant to that product will increase.

The two most common mechanisms that result in pesticideresistance include: 1) altered sites of action, and 2)enhanced pesticide metabolism.

Altered sites of action: The specific location within agiven insect, plant or fungal pest with which the pesticideinteracts is known as the "site of action". When thepesticide binds to this site of action, which is usually aprotein, some metabolic process essential to the pest'sgrowth and development is disrupted, and the pest dies.S om e pests achieve resistance by altering the site of actionso that the pesticide can no longer bind to it and induce themetabolic change. (Examples of metabolic processesnecessary for survival include photosynthesis (plants only),protein synthesis and lipid (fat) synthesis.)

Enhanced pesticide metabolism: The resistantpest mayhave the ability to inactivate the chemical, or break it downinto less toxic compounds, before it can reach the site ofaction in toxic concentrations and interfere with a m etabolicprocess. The target metabolic function remains unaffectedand the insect is not harmed.

RESISTANCE MANAGEMENT

The best way to manage pesticide resistance is to focus onthree strategies: avoidance, delay, and reversal.

1. Avoid the development of pesticide resistancethrough the use of Integrated Pest Management (lpM)programs, which reduce reliance on chemical control. lfyour pest control program relies solely on the use ofpesticides, resistance can only be delayed, not avoided.S om e non-chem ica I strateg ies for a g ricu ltu ral s itu ati onsinclude: rotating crops to break the pest cycle; planting pestresistant crop varieties; utilizing mechanical weed controlpractices such as rotary hoeing and cultivation; and,cleaning tillage and harvesting equipment before movingfrom fields infested with weeds to those that are not. lnnon-agricultural situations, work with your clients toencourage: sanitation in landscaping and residentialsituations to remove the pest's food sources andharborages; proper maintenance to exclude pests fromstructures (screening, filling of cracks); and, the use oftraps and vacuuming/manual removal of pests.

2. Delay resistance by using pesticides wisely:o Use pesticides only when needed as indicated bymonitoring, and when pests are at a susceptible stage.o Apply pesticides at the lowest effective labelled rate.o Use pesticides with the shortest effective residual.Pesticides that remain in the environment longer thanneeded continue to selectfor resistant individuals.o When possible, apply pesticides in localized areas ofpest pressure as opposed to making area-wide orbroadcast treatments.o Use long-term rotations of pesticides with differingmodes of action. Pesticides in the same chemical classtypically have the same mode of action. In other words,pesticides in the same class tend to have similar chemicalstructures and kill pests in the same way. So, if you wereto switch from one pesticide to another in the same class.you would continue to select for the organisms that wereresistant to the first product. By using a chemical fromanother class, you have a better chance at eliminating thepests that were resistant to the previous pesticide used.Pesticide classes include insecticides such asorganophosphates, carbamates, pyrethroids, andchlorinated hydrocarbons, herbicides sucn aschlorophenoxy compounds (2,4-D), acetamides andanalides, and fungicides such as substituted benzenes andthiocarbamates. [N ote - Organophosphates andcarbamates, although from different chemical classes,have similar modes of action and work in the same way.Therefore, avoid using both in a rotation schedule or tankmix (see below).1 The strategies used in rotationsdiffer. For example, with fungicides, it is suggestedthat classes be rotated every application.


Prevention and Management of Pesticide Res istanceWith insecticides, it is suggested that long-termrotations be used. This means that a class of pesticidewould be used for at least 6 to 8 weeks, depending onthe target pest's life cycle and generation time, beforerotating to a new class of materials. lf insecticides areswitched with every application, individuals are beingselected by numerous pesticides, and multipleresistance is also being selected.

. Use tank mixes of pesticides with differing modes ofaction (if label directions permit!). Never combine twopesticides with the same mode of action in a tank mix (e^9.,two organophosphates, or an organophosphate and acarbamate pesticide). Such a 'super dose'often increasesthe chances of selection for resistant individuals. ln somecases, mixing pesticides from two different classes canprovide superior control. However, longterm use of thesetwo-class pesticide mixes can also give rise to pesticideresistance, if resistance mechanisms to both pesticidesarise together in some individuals. Continued use of themixture will select for these multiple-pesticide-resistantpests.

. Maintain complete and accurate records. Accuraterecords will become critical if you are using longtermrotations of pesticides.

o lf there is only one chemical that is effective against apest and other available products are only marginallyeffective, a good strategy to follow is to use the marginallyeffective materials at times when pest pressure is lesssevere and to reserve the effective material for thoseperiods of time when control must be most effective.

3. Reversal of some resistance can occur by allowingtime between applications of a class of pesticide to permitresistant populations to become diluted through mating withpesticide-susceptible individuals. However, researcherssuggest that the potential exists for resistance to rendersome chemicals useless for the foreseeable future. THEEMPHASIS FOR MANAGING PEST RESISTANCESHOULD ALWAYS BE ON PREVENTION of resistancethrough adoption of integrated pest managementtechniques, rather than attempting to reverse resistanceonce it has occurred.

MAKE SURE YOU ARE REALLY DEALING WITHRESISTANCE

Pesticide applicators sometimes blame resistance for poorpesticide performance. However, if your pesticideapplication does notwork, do not automatically assumethetarget pests are resistant. First, carefully review your pestcontrol procedures:

o Did you ideniify the pest correctly?o Did you apply the correct pesticide. Did you use anyneeded adjuvants?. Did you apply the pesticide at the correct time and at theproper rate? Review the calculations you used todetermine the pesticide rate and to calibrate yourapplication equipment.r Did the application method assure good coverage?. Were the weather conditions conducive for maximumpesticide effectiveness. Was it too hot or windy? Was theapplication made shortly before a rain storm?. ls the pesticide out-of-date? The shelf life of manypestrcides is about 2 years. However, storage conditionscan greatly increase or decease the shelf life of a product.Do not allow pesticides to become too hot or to freeze.Storage conditions are particularly critical for pesticidesbased on living organisms such as Bacillus thuringiensis.Labels will provide information on proper storageconditions.

lf resistance appears to be likely, check for thefollowing:(The following guidance is provided for diagnosingherbicide-resistant weeds. However, the same approachcan be taken when dealing with any pest.)

1. Are other weeds listed on the product label controlledsatisfactorily? Usually, only one weed species will showherbicide resistance in any given field situation. Therefore,if several normally susceptible weed species are present,reconsider factors other than herbicide resistance.2. Did the same herbicides from the same chemical classwith the same site of action fail in the same area of the fieldin the previous year?3. Do your records show extensive use of the sameherbicide or herbicides from the same chemical class yearafter year?

lf one or more of these three situations apply, it is possiblethat the weeds are resistant to the herbicide. lf resistanceis suspected, control the weeds with a labeled herbicidefrom another chemical class or use the appropriate non-chemical weed-control methods to prevent the weeds fromgoing to seed.

Sources:tt Herbicide Reslslanf Weeds, J.L. Gunsolus. University of MinnesotaExtension Service Publication 468, 1999.tr Herbicide Reslsfance Update, Bob Hartzler. lowa State University,1 998.tt Floriculture and Ornamental Nurseries: ManagingPesticide Reslsfance. Universitv of California atDavis, 2000.a* Tips on Managing lnsecticide Resistance in theGreenhouse, Leanne Pundt. University ofConnecticut Extension Service.


The November 2003 Pesticide Applicator Reportcontained an article titled "Wear and Use PersonalProtective Equipment" which contained only generalintroductory guidance on respirators. "RespiratoryProtective Devices for Pesticides" is intended as acompanion article, to provide more comprehensiveguidance on the proper selection, use, and maintenanceof respirators. For copies of the 'Wear and UsePersonal Protective Equipment" article, please call(802\ 828-3475.

or many toxic chemicals, including pesticides, therespiratory (breathing) system is the quickest andmost direct route of entrv into the circulatorv svstem.

From the blood capillaries of the lungs, these toxicsubstances are rapidly transported throughout the body.Therefore, it is essential to take all necessary precautionsto protect against the inhalation of pesticides by wearingthe appropriate respiratory protection.

The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) requiresthat pesticide manufacturers determine the respiratoryprotection required according to the anticipated hazardsand risk of inhalation of a given pesticide, and to specifythe required respiratory protection on the product label.EPA provides pesticide manufacturers with specificpesticide label statements for respiratory protection for 5categories of pesticide form ulation and application activity:'1 ) gases applied outdoors; 2) gaseous products used inenclosed areas; 3) solid products, 4) liquid products inToxicity Category | (highly toxic; signal word = Danger);and,5) liquid products in Toxicity Category ll (moderatelytoxic, signal word = Warning). The label is the law. Youmust wear the protective clothing and respiratorydevices as indicated on the pesticide label.

Selectonlyequipment approved by the National Institute ofOccupational Safety and Health (N IOSH). Select arespiratorthatis designed forthe intended use, and alwaysfollow the manufacturer's instructions concerning the useand maintenance of that particular respirator.

There are several types of respiratory protective devicesavailable for all tasks and they vary in design, use, andprotective capability. There are two major categories ofrespiratory protective devices:

1. Air Purifying. This type of respirator removescontam inants from the air. lt is only to be used where thereis a sufficient oxygen supply. This category includes: a)mechanical filter; b) chemical cartridge; and, c) canistergas mask respirators.

Respiratory Protective Devices for Pesticides

2. Air Providing. This type of respirator provides airfor theuser in oxygen-deficient atmospheres, and includes a)supplied-air respirators, and b) self-contained breathingapparatus (SCBA).

I. AIR PURIFYING RESPIRATORY PROTECTION

a) Mechanical Filter RespiratoryProtection Devices ln the past,these devices were commonlyknown as dust masks. However,due to the use of imorovedcertification tests by NIOSH, whichhave lead to the production off iltering materials that are moreresistant to oils and are m oreefficient at removing very smallparticles (down to 0.3 micron),these devices are now referred toas filtering facepiece respirators.These simple filters commonly consist of a molded filterdesigned to cover the nose and mouth. The filter is held inplace by one or two elastic straps that are stretched overthe head. Some of these filters have an exhale valve in thecenter of the mask to make breathing easier in hot andhumid conditions. When the filter becomes clogged, thecomplete unit is discarded. Sufficient levels of oxvqenmust be present in the air to be filtered.

Filtering facepiece respirators provide protection againstparticulate matter such as pesticide dusts, pesticide mistsand welding fumes, but not the organic vapors associatedwith many pesticide applications. These respirators aredesignated as "N", not to be used with oil; "R", oil resistant:or "P", oilproof. Those designated R may be used for up to8 hours with pesticides that contain oil. Those designatedP may be used with pesticides that contain oil and may beable to be used longer than 8 hours. Of course, allthreetypes may be used with pesticides that do not contain oil.

Following the letter designation is an efficiency number,either 95 (95%), 99 (99%), or 100 (99.97%), indicating thepercent of particulates that are filtered out of thesurrounding air. For example, "N95" indicates thatthe filteris not oil-proof and should not be used with pesticides thatcontain oil, and that the filter will remove up to 95% of theparticulate matter in the air. "P100" means that the filter isoil proof, and can remove up to 99.97% of particulatematter in the surrounding air. Although there are 3 particleremova I eff iciencies for fi lters, most m an ufactu rers are on lymarketing the 95 and 100 filters. lf you previously used ahigh efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter, a filter with theefficiency number of "100" would be comparable.


Respiratory Protective Devices for Pesticides

Filtering facepiece respirators are made of the samematerialthat is used in pre-filters. Pre-filters are often usedin combination with chemical cartridge respirators (seebelow)when you need protection against particulate matteras well as toxic vapors and gases.

b) Chemical Cartridqe RespiraChemical cartridge respirators provide a higher level ofprotection than dust masks. A soft rubber-like (silicone)

face piece covers thenose and mouth andcontains valves tocontrol air movem entthrough the device. Afu ll face respiratoralso includes an eyeshield and covers theentire face and eyes.

Replaceable cartridges contain activated carbon thatabsorbs toxic vapors and gases. Pre-filters may beinstalled on the outside of the cartridges to filter particulatematter out of the incoming air, providing protection againstboth gases/vapors and particulate matter.

Chem ical cartridge respirators are used only whenexposure to high continual concentrations of pesticides isunlikely, such as when mixing pesticides outdoors. Theuser must anticipate the type of hazard to be protectedagainst and purchase the correct cartridges. No singletype of cartridge is able to remove all kinds ofchemical gases and vapors. A different type ofchemical cartridge (or canister in the case of gasmasks) must be used for different contaminants.Sufficient levels of oxygen must be present in the air to befiltered.

Battery powered air-purifying respirators equipped withpesticide filters/ cartridges also are effective in filtering outpesticide particles and vapors. They are available as half-masks, full-face masks, hoods,and protective helmets, andare connected by a breathinghose to a battery poweredfiltration system. This type offiltration system has theadditional advantage of coolingthe person wearing it. But, likeother air purifying devices, thissystem does not supplyoxygen and must be worn onlywhen the oxygen supply is notlimited.

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c) Gas MasksGas masks are designed to cover the entire face andprotect the eyes. Gas m ask canisters contain more of thepoison-removing materials than do the chemical cartridgerespirators. Therefore, they have a longer service life andallow longer working times in high levels of contaminantsthan typicalrespirators. The canister may be mounted onthe face piece or at the end of a flexible hose to allowmounting at the user's belt. Sufficient levels of oxygen mustbe present in the air where gas masks are used.

NOTE: Chemical cartridge respirators and gas maskscannot provide adequate protection against toxic gasesused for fumigation in enclosed spaces. Masks with a selfcontained air supply should be worn in these situations.

II. SU PP LIE D.AIR RES PIRATORY PROTECTION

a) Su pplied-Air Respirato rsSupplied air respirators provide fresh air from a remotesource or from pressurized tanks. The face pieces aresimilar to cartridge type respirators or gas masks. The airmay be supplied by a portable air compressor or pressuretanks located up to 300 feet from the user. Compressorsmust be located in a clean air area.

Supplied-air respirators can be used in confined spaceswhere there is likely to be an inadequate level of oxygen orwhere high concentrations of pesticides are in the air.

b) Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA)Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) is a type ofrespirator that has full face coverage and an oxygen supplycontained in a compressed air tank carried on the usersback. lt can be used in oxygen deficient areas and inhazardous atmospheres. SCBA is used in enclosed areassuch as silos, grain storage, and other structures, and inmanure pits.

RESPIRATORY EQU IPMENT SAFETY

Respiratory equipm ent can safeguard your health and saveyour life in any hazardous air condition you may encounter.However, without proper care and precautions when usingsuch equipment, the device you rely on could beineffective. Here is a list of guidelines and precautionsevery worker should follow when using protectiveequ ipm ent.

. Applicators should be completely familiar with theirequipment's use, replacement, care, cleaning and storage.

. Applicators should testtheir equipment before every use.Follow the manufacturer's instructions for properly testingequ ipm ent.

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Resprratory Protective Devices for pesficfdes

. Make sure your respirator fits you properly. Leakagedefeats the effectiveness of even the best respiratorforthesituation. Testing your equipment will assure a proper fit.A beard or large sideburns may prevent a good facial seal.

lf you are using a respirator that has cartridges, you canuse one of two methods to see if your respirator fitsproperly:

1) Positive Fit Check: Exhale while you cover theexhalation valve with the palm of your hand - if you feel airagainst the skin of your face, there is a leak in the seal.

2) Negative Fit Gheck: Cover the cartridge(s) withyour hands and inhale - if the mask is drawn tighfly to yourface, there is no leakage.

. Clean and repair your respirator regularly and accordingto the manufacturer's instructions.

. Change filter cartridges and pre-filters regularly. lf youare using filter cartridges and you notice a change insmell or taste or you begin coughing, then the hazardousmaterial may be getting through the filter and it should bechanged immediately. You should consider setting aregular filter replacement schedule if the contaminantcannot be noticed by the five senses. Typically, cartridgesshould be changed after every 8 hours of use unless themanufacturer specifies otherwise. lf you are using apre-filter for more than five or six hours a day, then youshould change the pre-filter daily. lt is important to changefilter cartridges before breathing becomes difficult.

. Store protective equipment in a clean, dry place AWAYfrom work and chemical storage areas. Self-sealing plasticbags are idealfor storing clean respirators.

. Applicators must be fully capable of wearing protectiveequipment. Some conditions which could cause problemsfor individuals wearing respirators are: asthma, allergies,emphysema, high blood pressure, heart disorder,claustrophobia or minor facial abnormalities. Before youconsider wearing a respirator, it is recommended that youhave a medical examination to evaluate your ability tosafely wear a respirator.

. Buy only certified respirators. Look for labels approved byNIOSH that show an approval number.

. lf it is practical, assign respirators to individuals so theycan assume responsibility forthe care and maintenance oftheir equipment.

IN CASE OF EMERGENCY

Leave the hazardous area immediately and get to freshair if you sense any of the following danger signs:

. You begin to smell or taste contaminants;

. Your eyes, nose, or throat become irritated:

. Breathing becomes difficult;

. The air you are breathing becomes uncomfortablywarm; or,

. You become nauseous or dizzv.

lf someone else is overcome by toxic gases:

1. PROTECT YOURSELF with a proper respirator beforeentering the hazardous area.

2. Remove the victim to fresh air.

Act QUICKLY but THOUGHTFULLY! A few minuteswithout oxygen can cause brain damage or death for thevictim-but without thin king about your own safety, you couldalso become a victim.

CALL FOR HELP!

Sources:

"! Penn State University. 1998. Respiratory protective Devices forPesficrUes. Agrichemical Fact Sheet Number 1.

a. Virginia Tech Cooperative Extension. Undated. Respiratory protectionin Agriculture. URL:h!!p'/wi,!w. ext. vt. eci ui ou bs/$efetvlre$pFrt:teclresspratec. htnil.

;l Rutgers Cooperative Extension. 2002. RespiratoryProtection for Pesticides.

Photos:

rl Pesticidepics.com. URL:httr::1ft:esticiCepi*s.ext.vt.edu/Virginia Tech. Personal Protective Equipment Album.facepiece respirator and chemical cartridge respirator)

(Filtering

a& Gemplers.com URL: h!tpil@.(Battery powered air-purifying respirator)


Home Study Quiz - L Prevention and Management of Pesticide Resrsfance

The following set of questions pertains lo lhe Prevention and Management of Pesticide Resr'sfance article on pages

12-13. Fill out the information on the back of the quiz and mail the completed quiz to the Vermont Agency of Agriculture to receive

one pesticide recertification credit.

1. What is pesticide resistance?

2. Provide a brief description of how pesticide resistance develops within a pest population.

3. What are the two most common mechanisms thatresult in pesticide resistance?

A.

B.

4. Briefly describe one of the two pesticide resistance mechanisms you listed in question #3 above

5. Why is the use of an integrated pest management program an effective way to avoid the development of pesticideresista nce?

6. You have determined that you need to include the use of pesticides in your pest management program. Provide 4

examples of pesticide application strategies that you could use to delay the development of pesticide resistance.

1.

4.

7. Thepesticideyouareusinghasfailedtocontrol thetargetpest. Whatisthefirstthingyoushoulddoinordertodetermine if you are dealing with a case of pesticide resistance?

Fill out the following information and mail the completed quiz to the VermontAgency of Agriculture to receive one pesticide recertification credit.

Name.

Signature:

Certificate #:

Address:

Company/Farm:

DATE:

Mail to:

Ve rm ont Ag ency of Ag riculturePIant Industry D ivision116 State Street, Drawer 20Montpelier, Verm o nt 05620-2901

Attn: Wendy Anderson


Home Study Quiz - Il. Respiratory Protective Devices for Pesticides

The following set of questions pertains to the Respiratory Protective Devices for Pesticides article on pages

14-16. Fillout the information on the back of the quiz and mail the completed quiz to the Vermont Agency of Agriculture to receive

one pesticide recertification credit.

1. You should select and use respirators that have been approved by what National organization?

2. Describe the best wayto store your respirator and other protective clothing.

3. What are some health conditions that would make it difficult for you to wear a respirator?

4. How often should you test your respirator for proper functioning?a) Weeklyb) Monthlyc) Before each used) Semi-annually

5. Wherewillyoufindtheinformationdescribinghowyoushouldtestyourrespiratorforproperfunctioning?

6. ListthetwomethodsyoucanusetotestyourrespiratorforaproperfitANDdescribehowyouwouldperformeach?

7. How often should filter cartridges be changed if the manufacturer does not provide specific guidance on the label?

Questions 8 - 10" Selectthe appropriate piece of respiratory protection equipment for each of the following scenarios:

8. Mixing an emulsifiable concentrate pesticide outdoors -- A. Supplied air respirator

9. Performing a fumigation in a greenhouse --10. Mixing a wettable powder --

B. Filtering facepiece respirator

C. Chemical cartridge respirator

Pesti ci de Appl icator ReportMay 2004

Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food and MarketsPlant Industry Division116 State Street, Drawer 20Montpelier, Vermont 05620

NONPROFITU.S. POSTAGE PAID

MONTPELIER, VT 05620.2901PERMIT No.74

Fill out the following information and mail the completed quiz to the VermontAgency of Agriculture to receive one pesticide recertification credit.

Name:

Signature:

Certificate #:

Address:

Com pany/Farm:

DATE:

Documents

Pesticide Applicator - University of Vermont · Pesticide Applicator Report I$r.r ... and the import/export of agricultural ... contact the National Pesticide I nformation Ce nter