A study on the use of pesticides on Irish farms is looking for participation from farmers. The research is being done by the School of Agriculture and Food Science at University College Dublin (UCD).
The UCD researchers hope to reach up to 2,000 farmers to get as broad a sample as possible. But anyone who’s ever used pesticides on an Irish farm, whether grassland or tillage, can also take part.
The survey aims to collect views on the guidance for applying pesticides, and whether it is too strict, or not strict enough. It also asks general questions about how pesticides are used.
A spokesperson for the research project explained, “How pesticides are applied is very important because it can change how safe they are for the health of the farmer, and the land they manage. So, it’s important that we know how farmers actually use pesticides. Evidence from the US has found that farmers might not be fully protecting themselves from health risks, with just 8% using proper personal protective equipment like gloves and overalls where recommended.”
Apparently similar research has never been carried out in an Irish or European context, so it is unknown whether similar behaviours are occurring here. Results will be broken down by farm type, so industry-specific responses can be measured.
The questionnaire takes around 10 minutes, and is anonymous and confidential. Agricultural contractors are not requested to complete the survey.
The survey is open until 23 May 23, 2022.
To participate, see here.
LSL News