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IDOAs Warren Goetsch explains the Driftwatch program to custom applicator Randy Zorn. (file photo)
IDOA's Warren Goetsch explains the Driftwatch program to custom applicator Randy Zorn. (file photo)
 
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Driftwatch makes strides during first year

Driftwatch is a voluntary program that allows farmers and beekeepers to register and map pesticide-sensitive locations online and provide contact information.
Kay Shipman 
Published: Feb 7, 2012
Driftwatch, a state website that identifies farms with pesticide-sensitive crops, made progress in its first year, according to Warren Goetsch, bureau chief of environmental programs with the Illinois Department of Agriculture.

Driftwatch is a voluntary program that allows farmers and beekeepers to register and map pesticide-sensitive locations online and provide contact information. The site is geared for commercial operations, not small gardens.

The website is http://illinois.agriculture.purdue.edu/. Purdue University hosts the website for Illinois.

In addition to specialty crops and beehives, Driftwatch information may identify the locations of organic crops and livestock, fish farms, greenhouses, Christmas tree farms, and nursery crops. A variety of crops was registered last year, Goetsch reported.
 
“This (website) at least is giving specialty growers and (pesticide) sensitive growers an opportunity to be pro-active and do something. They can take a positive step,” Goetsch said.

“Driftwatch is a positive approach for both those who are involved in spraying fields and those growing sensitive crops,” added Cynthia Haskins, Illinois Farm Bureau manager of business development and compliance. “What better way to let one know what the other is doing. It makes for good neighbors.”

There is no cost to register sensitive crops or farm operations. Each registrant is given a password and only those with the password will be able to change online information.

Neighboring farmers, pesticide applicators, and others may view the Driftwatch map to see where pesticide-sensitive farms are located.

Pesticide applicators also may register and sign up for electronic notification when new sensitive locations are registered within their service areas.

Although Goetsch said he was pleased with the number of sites registered, he hopes website use continues to grow. “We would like to see more participation in future years,” he said.


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