Safe spraying practices are the topic of a pesticide awareness day March 3 in Santa Maria sponsored by the County Farm Bureau, in an effort to reduce pesticide drift and increase safety. The Spray Safe program — delivered in English and in Spanish — covers field equipment calibration and maintenance, worker safety, laws, and regulations. Equipment displays and exhibits, as well as a barbecue lunch, are part of the free program.
“As farmers and ranchers, we have a moral obligation to our workers, our neighbors and our communities to ensure that our required practices are conducted responsibly and safely,” said Victor Tognazzini, president of the Farm Bureau, in an announcement. Speakers include Brian Leahy, director of the state Department of Pesticide Regulation, and experts from UC Riverside, Tee-Jet, and other providers. Register by February 20 here.