Source: Iowa State University Extension

Before making pesticide applications this year check the FieldWatch online registry so you are aware of sensitive crops and beehives in the area. In 2017 the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship Pesticide Bureau received a record number of complaints regarding pesticide applications. Taking the time to review what is near a field prior to applications can help mitigate future problems.

FieldWatch features a voluntary mapping tool through Google Maps™ that shows pesticide applicators the locations of registered sensitive crops and beehives so they can make informed decisions regarding potential pesticide applications. FieldWatch replaced the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship Sensitive Crop Directory in 2017.

Recently FieldWatch launched two new mobile apps that make it easier to access and input data. The FieldCheck app is designed to give applicators easier access to information from their mobile device while in the field. BeeCheck is designed to help beekeepers make changing the location of beehives easier and faster. Both apps are available free of charge for Android and iOS devices.

Producers can register their sensitive crops on the DriftWatch Specialty Crop Site Registry and beekeepers can register their hive locations on the BeeCheck Apiary Registry.

Originally posted by Iowa State University Extension.