The Future of Pesticides in Turf Management

In the UK and Ireland, the withdrawal of active substances for amenity use has made managing high performing turf surfaces harder than ever. There are still a number of unknowns about the future of pesticide use but if we review the current directive and it’s aims, we see that it is unlikely to get an easier:

The EU Sustainable Use Directive (Directive 2009/128/EC) aims to promote the sustainable use of pesticides across various sectors, including amenity areas, such as turfgrass management. While the directive primarily focuses on the use of pesticides, it has implications for managing turfgrass in terms of pesticide application practices and overall sustainability. Here are some key points related to turfgrass management:

1. Integrated Pest Management (IPM): The directive emphasises the adoption of Integrated Pest Management principles, which involve a holistic approach to pest control that includes prevention, monitoring, and the use of multiple control methods. This approach encourages minimising the use of pesticides and prioritising non-chemical options where possible.

2. Pesticide Reduction: The directive sets objectives for Member States to reduce the risks and impacts of pesticide use on human health and the environment. This reduction includes minimising pesticide applications, considering alternative methods, and promoting the use of low-risk products such as bio-controls.

3. Professional Training and Certification: The directive encourages Member States to establish systems for training and certifying professional users of pesticides, including those involved in turfgrass management. This ensures that pesticide applications are carried out by trained personnel who have knowledge of proper handling, application techniques, and understanding of the principles of sustainable use.

4.  Protected Areas and Water Protection: The directive emphasises the protection of sensitive areas, such as water bodies and nature conservation areas, from pesticide contamination. It encourages implementing buffer zones and best practices to minimise pesticide runoff and reduce potential negative impacts on the environment.

5. Monitoring and Reporting: Member States are required to monitor and report on pesticide use, impacts, and progress in reducing risks and dependency on pesticides. This information helps assess the effectiveness of the directive's implementation and guides future actions.

For managing turfgrass, the EU Sustainable Use Directive encourages a shift towards more sustainable practices, reduced pesticide dependency, and the integration of non-chemical methods. Turfgrass managers are encouraged to adopt integrated approaches, prioritise prevention and cultural practices, use pesticides as a last resort, and promote overall environmental stewardship in their maintenance strategies.It's important to note that specific regulations and implementation measures will vary in the UK and in EU Member States. However, it is clear that in order to meet the future legislative challenges, turf managers will need more sustainable solutions, and this is where bio-control such as Harmonix® Turf Defense will play a pivotal role.