In recent years, the widespread use of herbicides has significantly boosted agricultural productivity and reduced labor demands, marking a major advancement in farming practices. However, in Wulian County, Shandong Province, a concerning issue has emerged: the improper and excessive application of herbicides by farmers is becoming increasingly common. This misuse not only negatively affects crop yields but also poses serious environmental risks.
Firstly, many farmers do not follow the recommended dosages when applying herbicides. For instance, with 50% acetochlor EC, some farmers double or even triple the suggested amount, leading to severe damage to crops. In one case, a farmer named Li from Fangzi Village planted soybeans in 2013 using 99% acetochlor, which was marketed as safe for crop roots. Unfortunately, after planting, the seedlings began dying continuously, eventually leading to poor growth and low yield. Upon investigation, it was found that Li had used an entire bottle of pesticide for just one acre, far exceeding the recommended dosage.
Secondly, the extensive use of selective herbicides has become the norm, replacing traditional methods. While these herbicides are designed to target specific weeds, they can still have unintended effects on crops. Long-residual herbicides like chlorsulfuron-methyl and atrazine are particularly problematic. Though they may not harm the current season's crops, their long-term impact on future planting cycles remains unclear. For example, fields treated with imidazolium or chlorsulfuron often cannot grow rice or corn the following year due to residual effects.
Farmers have also reported issues such as winter wheat seedling death and uneven growth across different plots. Many initially suspected fertilizers or seeds, but after comparing adjacent fields, it became clear that excessive herbicide use was the main cause. Additionally, the improper disposal of herbicides in ditches and field margins leads to water contamination, soil degradation, and disruption of local ecosystems.
To address these challenges, it is crucial for distributors and agricultural departments to educate farmers on proper herbicide use. Moreover, outdated spraying equipment, such as leaky sprayers and manual pumps, should be replaced with modern tools to improve efficiency and reduce waste. Finally, herbicide manufacturers must provide clearer instructions regarding potential side effects on crops, especially lower crops, so that farmers can make informed decisions.
By promoting responsible usage and better technology, we can ensure sustainable agriculture while protecting the environment for future generations.
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