What is the purpose of a chemigation permit?

The purpose of a chemigation permit is specifically to allow the application of pesticides through irrigation systems. This practice, known as chemigation, integrates pesticide application with irrigation to ensure that the chemicals are evenly distributed over the targeted area, enhancing their effectiveness while reducing labor and application costs. The permit ensures that those using this method comply with safety and legal regulations to protect both the environment and public health.

A chemigation permit helps regulate how and when this method can be applied, ensuring that it is performed safely and effectively. It's critical for applicators to be aware of specific guidelines to prevent contamination of groundwater or surface water and to minimize risks associated with pesticide drift or misapplication.

While environmental monitoring and training for applicators are essential aspects of pesticide use, these are not the primary focus of a chemigation permit. The intent of the permit is directly linked to the method of application involving irrigation systems.