Water Quality District - Alternatives
Less Toxic Alternatives
Before buying pesticides for your lawn or garden this season, ask yourself these important questions:
- Do I know what pest or weed I am trying to control?
Be sure the product you buy is effective for the problem you are trying to solve. Buying the wrong thing wastes money and creates hazardous waste
- Is there enough of this pest to require control?
Small infestations may not harm your desirable plants.
- What is the least toxic way and best time to control this pest?
Many pests and weeds are effectively controlled by non-toxic, or less-toxic alternatives.
Most pests require treatment at a particular stage of development for effective control. Treating at the wrong time wastes money and needlessly contaminates the environment.
Beneficial insects that help control pests may be killed by pesticides – your pest problem can actually get worse after using pesticides!
- What is the smallest amount I need to do the job?
Don’t buy large quantities unless you really need to. “Stocking up” is not a good policy with chemical pesticides.
- Have I read the label?
This will help you choose a product that is effective for your problem and use it safely.
Signal words indicate toxicity (from least to most toxic):
Caution
Warning
Danger/Poison
Wear the protective clothing and equipment required.
- Will I be able to properly dispose of any leftovers?
Chemical pesticides should not be disposed of with your trash, and not be flushed or poured down any drain. Follow label disposal instructions, and make sure you comply with all regulations. Bring leftovers to Haz Waste Days in September.
Remember -- reducing the amount you buy means less to dispose of and less environmental contamination!
- Call the County Extension ’s Pest Alert Line at 258-3820 for timely treatment tips and information. Or visit www.missoulaeduplace.org.
- Missoula City Pesticide Ordinance -- Click here
Please note
some documents are in "Portable Document Format" and
requires Adobe Acrobat Reader to view. If you do not have
this viewer, visit
Adobe.com.
