Rules about using professional crop protection products are changing as the Sustainable Use Directive (SUD) is implemented in the UK. To remind farmers of the steps needed to comply, The Voluntary Initiative (VI) has produced a simple checklist.

“The ’Are You Ready for SUD?’ card aims to help farmers understand what they need to do to ensure they comply with the new rules,” explains VI Manager, Patrick Goldsworthy. “Key changes affect ‘grandfather’ rights, sprayer testing along with the need to demonstrate that ’integrated pest management’ (IPM) is being followed. Many of the requirements have been best practice in the UK for many years and are often part of arable assurance schemes. However, these changes will be a challenge for farmers less familiar with spraying best practice.”

HGCA is mailing the card to 30,000 growers and advisers across the UK. An electronic version can be downloaded from the website www.voluntaryinitiative.org.uk. The card will also be available from crop protection distributors, farming unions and will be provided as part of the materials for this year’s NRoSO Operator Roadshow.