Some pesticides found on farms contain active ingredients prohibited under recent laws
''Much of what happens on farms comes down to the perception of risk. What we started calling 'Recognise the Risks'. Risk can either be embraced or avoided; some of us like it, some run from it. There are risks involved in growing certain crops - some are likely to need more pesticide protection than others, they are more inherently susceptible to pests and diseases. The study results show that Farmers' Association farmers are more likely to embrace risk and grow high risk-reward crops, and yet by using appropriate, high quality products at the correct rates, the dangers of contamination and over exposure (leading to pesticide residues on food) are minimal. In contrast on a poorly managed farm risky crops are avoided and risks to yield are eliminated by excessive use of chemicals. The problem is that this transfers the risk to us - the risk of pesticide contamination of our food,'' Professor Deadman said.
''We need to reinforce the path of pesticide enlightenment that starts with correct problem diagnosis, continues through selection of appropriate pesticide product and correct application procedure and ends with observance of the waiting period between pesticide application and crop harvesting.''
Professor Deadman, with colleagues from the ministries is working towards the introduction of certificate programmes that must be taken by those involved in pesticide applications; the rigorous enforcement of border controls to prevent the importation of prohibited pesticides into Oman; restrictions on the use of cheap copies of pesticides that could contain high levels of contaminants and the issuance of clearer guidelines on recommended pesticides for particular crop problems. ''For the sake of our health, the health of farmers and the health of the environment, we need to ensure that the use of pesticides is ever more closely controlled and in line with government policy,'' Professor Deadman adde
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