As planting season begins across the country, the IFCA reminds our members and farmers to follow the basic steps for stewardship of treated seed:

• follow directions on seed container labeling;
• eliminate weeds in the field prior to planting;
• minimize dust by using advanced seed flow lubricants;
• “BeeAware” of honey bees and hives located near the field;
• ensure that any spilled seeds are removed or covered by soil to protect wildlife and the environment; and
• remove all treated seed left in containers and equipment.

Seed treatments undergo rigorous testing and review by the EPA prior to being permitted to be used commercially. The industry is constantly evolving to improve seed treatment processes such as: enhancing seed coating polymers and application processes to keep active ingredients on the seed and reduce dust-off; developing new flow agents for use with planting equipment to further minimize the amount of dust-off during planting; and implementing an ISO planting equipment standard to better control dust emissions.
 
For more information, visit seed-treatment-guide.com. The Guide to Seed Treatment Stewardship is a partnership between IFCA national partners, American Seed Trade Association and CropLife America