By Nick Anthony
In 2008 the Cosmetic Pesticide Ban Act,, Bill 64 received royal ascent into law. The implications for golf courses were at first widely unknown to most club managers, but after a few years, the steps needed to comply have been well documented. Some clubs may still be wondering why compliance is important. I hope to outline how developing an IPM program will reduce risk on your golf course.
- Reducing the amount you spray reduces your employees’ exposure to potentially harmful chemicals.
- Having to store less chemicals on site reduces the chance of a chemical spill that is costly to contain properly.
- Compliance with regulations is part of working towards due diligence if anything were to go wrong and legal problems arose.
- The documentation portion of IPM compliance will help greatly with documentation for any possible legal issues.
- By thoroughly documenting pesticide use, there will be less chance of improper use. It is easier to “measure twice, cut once”, when you are going to be held accountable by documentation.
These 5 points will help you to understand why compliance with Bill 64
Steps You Should be Taking Right Now!
1. Make sure you are IPM Compliant – http://www.ontarioipm.com/IPM/index.cfm/ipm-for-golf-courses/
2. Contact your insurance company to see if reduction in premiums is possible because of your reduced chemical use and reduced risk.
3. Educate your management, employees and customers (or members) about the benefits of pesticide reduction. How it reduces risk on the golf course for staff and patrons.
Can any readers think of other benefits of IPM Compliance?
