Follow the Basic Steps for Stewardship of Treated Seed

Follow the Basic Steps for Stewardship of Treated Seed

Alexandria, VA—April 15, 2019— As planting season begins across the country, the American Seed Trade Association (ASTA) reminds 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 provide farmers with an effective and economical way to protect their crops against damaging pests and diseases,” said ASTA VP, Government and Regulatory Affairs Jane DeMarchi. “Using treated seeds helps with more uniform stands, healthier plants and higher crop yields. It’s important to always remember to follow directions on seed container labeling for proper handling, storage, planting and disposal practices to minimize risk to applicators, wildlife and the environment.”

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 ASTA and CropLife America, with support from: Agricultural Retailers Association, American Farm Bureau Federation, American Soybean Association, National Corn Growers Association, National Cotton Council, National Association of Wheat Growers; and National Association of State Departments of Agriculture. Additional resources can be found at www.growingmatters.org/besure.

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Founded in 1883, the American Seed Trade Association (ASTA) represents over 700 companies involved in seed production, plant breeding and related industries in North America. ASTA is an effective voice of action in all matters concerning the development, marketing and movement of seed, associated products and services throughout the world. The association’s broad membership offers varieties from alfalfa to zucchini and all production types including conventional, organic and biotech. ASTA promotes the development of better seed to produce better crops for a better quality of life.