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Agriculture Development and ValueChain Enhancement Program

(ADVANCE II)

Pesticide Evaluation Report & Safer Use Action Plan

(PERSUAP) Amendment #1

Presented to : Pearl Ackah

AOR, USAID/GHANAP. O. Box 1630, Accra, Ghana

[email protected]

Submitted by:Dr. Emmanuel Dormon

Chief of Party, ADVANCEP. O. Box KD138, Kanda, Accra [email protected]

September 2016

PROGRAM/ACTIVITY DATA:

Program/Activity Number: Aid-641-A-14-0001

Country/Region: Ghana/West Africa

Program/Activity Title: Agricultural Development and Value Chain Enhancement Feed the Future Activity (ADVANCE II)

Funding: Ghana Feed the Future Program

Funding Begin: February 5, 2014 Funding End: Sept 30, 2018

LOP Amount: $37,556,780

PERSUAP Prepared By: Victor M. Mombu, Environmental Specialist, ADVANCE

Current Date: September 2016

PERSUAP Amendment (Y/N): Y If "yes", Filename & date of original IEE: Agricultural Development and Value Chain Enhancement (ADVANCE) (approved: 06/25/2010);

ENVIRONMENTAL ACTION RECOMMENDED : (Place X where applicable) Categorical Exclusion: N/A Negative Determination: __X__Positive Determination: _N/A __ Deferral: _N/A__

ADDITIONAL ELEMENTS: (Place X where applicable)CONDITIONS: X_ PVO/NGO: X _ EMMP (SUAP): X _ ERR:

RELATED DOCUMENTATION:1. Ghana_FTF_EG_IEE_120611. http://gemini.info.usaid.gov/egat/envcomp/repository/doc/38018.doc

2. G hana _ADVANCE_PERSUAP_071812 (DOCX) (PDF), approved 07/18/2012 3. Ghana ADVANCE II PERSUAP, 2016. Amendment. Not yet posted to ECD.

4. Ghana Commercial Agriculture Project (GCAP): Public Private Partnership, USAID & World Bank co-financing. Pest Management Plan.

5. Ghana Feed the Future Program, Agriculture Technology Transfer (ATT) PERSUAP (IFDC), approved 04/17/2014Details for file #Ghana_FTF_EE_2011_2015 (DOCX) (PDF).

6. West Africa Regional Programmatic PERSUAP (P-PERSUAP) Covering Nine Target Countries with USAID West Africa Programs: Sahel/Savannah zone (covered by CILSS/INSAH): Burkina Faso, Chad, Mali, Niger and Sénégal; Humid/Tropical zone: Benin, Côte d’Ivoire, Ghana and Liberia. Approved 3/16/2015: http://gemini.info.usaid.gov/repository/pdf/42966.pdf.

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http://gemini.info.usaid.gov/repository/pdf/42966.pdf


http://gemini.info.usaid.gov/repository/doc/39950.docx



http://gemini.info.usaid.gov/egat/envcomp/repository/doc/38018.doc

7. West Africa PERSUAP for CORAF/WECARD - Feed the Future (FTF) Activities by National Agricultural Research Systems in eleven West African Countries. Details for file #West_Africa_CORAF_WECARD PERSUAP_2013_2017_BEOcleared (DOCX)(P DF ), approved 04/17/2014. Operating Unit: West Africa. Countries: Benin, Burkina Faso, Cote d'Ivoire, Ghana, Liberia, Mali, Niger, Nigeria, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Togo.

8. AGRA Scaling Seeds and Technologies Partnership in Africa (SSTP): PERSUAP, approved 01/29/2105. Details for file #BFS_AGRA_SSTP_PERSUAP (DOCX) (PDF). Approved 01/29/2015 Bureau Food Security. Countries / Operating Units: Ethiopia, Tanzania, Ghana, Senegal, Malawi, Mozambique.

SUMMARY OF FINDINGS & RECOMMENDATIONS

This PERSUAP addresses the Condition of the ADVANCE IEE Negative Determination regarding amendment and updating of the ADVANCE PERSUAP.

This PERSUAP covers the following:

1. Review of the Ghana Environmental Protection Agency pesticide register, dated December 2015.

2. Diseases, weeds, insects and other pests of each crop and the choice of the registered pesticides;

3. Safer pesticide use action and implementation plan; 4. A guide to training on safe pesticide use5. A host of useful resources in the Annexes

The PERSUAP will closely inform the technical assistance and capacity building for ADVANCE staff, partners and beneficiary actors during the implementation of the project.

Addressing IPM and crop protection capacityGuidelines for providing training on IPM are provided in Annex 2. The project will incorporate IPM training into its core activities so that all participants will receive comprehensive training in the responsible use of pesticides during the project implementation period. GAPs will also be promoted as a way of improving productivity of small holder farmers.

Pesticide Choice: Choices of the least hazardous yet effective products are considered in this report. The choice of preferred products is based on criteria such as the toxicity classification, suitability for integrated pest management, registration approval by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) and Ghana Environmental Protection Agency (GhEPA), and availability on the market. Training: This PERSUAP proposes training programs where the project will support and strengthen Spray Service Providers (SSPs) to provide professional spray services using the best safety methods available to minimize pesticide poisoning of persons and the environment. Field officers will work closely with the GhEPA, Plant Protection and Regulatory Services Division (PPRSD), Ghana Agri-input Dealers Association (GAIDA) and other partners to train project beneficiaries. The safe use action plan will be a guideline for all training purposes.

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Environmental conservation and Climate Smart Agriculture: are key to sustainable agricultural production. A number of challenges influencing the choice of pest management approach including application of IPM and use of crop protection products (Agrochemicals) have been identified in the field. Methods for reducing pests must be environmentally acceptable and economically viable. Continued training on safer use of agrochemicals especially guidance on how to use the products in fragile production environments such as areas close to river beds, surface water bodies, protected areas, and similar areas have been identified.

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Analysis of issues identified in PER and conclusionsIssues Analysis and conclusionsReduce reliance on pesticides.

Farmers do not normally select crop varieties on the basis of pesticide need but more on expected economic returns. However, in order to minimize the potential losses from pests and diseases, a useful starting point is to obtain appropriate planting materials of crop varieties that have been proven, through local field trials, to demonstrate acceptable levels of resistance or tolerance to major pests and diseases. These may be obtained by working in collaboration with SARI, CRI, and local Universities.

Promote use of PPEs

Small holder farmers do not view investments in personal protective equipment (PPEs) as an economically useful venture. Farmers are aware of the potential hazards when spraying pesticides but are not fully appreciative of the need to be protected. The project has been working to support the set of commercial SSPs that are linked to either input dealers or NFs. This way, outgrowers who are associated to an NF can access the services of SSPs from a centralized and coordinated point at a fee that does not match with the initial investment of PPEs. This approach has the advantage of reducing the number of inexperienced and casual users exposed to pesticides. In addition, this market-driven approach does not only help ensure effective and efficient application and safe handling, but provides a medium for the dealers to promote their products and gain respect of customers under the premise that judicious application of pesticides will maximize crop yields and can convince farmers of the need to continue purchasing the product.

Discourage re-use of pesticide containers

Preventing re-use of pesticide containers is still a big challenge among farmers and their families. Empty pesticide containers are used to store water, salt, pito, and many other items in local villages. A regular program of public awareness, education and training of all categories of farm workers on the risks associated with reuse of pesticide containers is needed. These should include radio jingles and training topics during GAPs dissemination and field day trainings.

Discourage women and children from pesticide application

Women, especially pregnant and nursing mothers, as well as children represent a highly vulnerable group for pesticides poisoning. Experience in Zimbabwe and India shows that high levels of pesticides residues can be found in human breast milk where pesticides management has been very poor. In line with the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, the project will as much as possible discourage women from pesticide applications and rather seek the services of SSPs.

Promote safe disposal of pesticide containers

The Ghana EPA recommends that empty pesticide containers are punctured/destroyed and buried. Burning is not recommended. There have been programs that encouraged farmers to return empty containers to a central point for collection and re-use, but these have suffered the challenges of sustainability. Proper disposal of pesticide containers therefore continues to be a big challenge among small-holder famers in northern Ghana. It is easier to have trained SSPs do proper disposal than individual farmers. The project is working with the ATT project to set up systems for retrieving and properly disposing empty pesticide containers. This collaboration will begin with 19 OBs in the Upper West Region who

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have SSPs linked to their businesses. Minimize ground and surface water contamination.

Water bodies in Ghana, including the large Lake Volta, have been found to be contaminated with multiple pesticides such as DDT and lindane. This has a secondary contamination effect on lake sediments and freshwater fish. Contamination in food produce includes, for example, lettuce in Kumasi in which levels of DDT have been recorded at 400 micrograms per kilogram (or 400 parts per billion). Fianko et al (2011), Darko and Acquaah (2008) and Laary (2012) all report pesticide contamination in multiple areas of the food chain and natural environment. Water samples from rivers in the intensive cocoa growing areas in the Ashanti and Eastern Regions of Ghana have been found to contain lindane and endosulfan. Water samples from Akumadan, a vegetable farming community in the Ashanti Region and different areas of Ghana revealed the presence of significant levels of pesticide residues. The possible reasons for pesticides to reach these aquatic environments are through direct runoff, leaching, and careless disposal of empty containers, equipment washing, and use of toxic products. In the Upper East Region of Ghana, a 2012 report by NPASP stated that 15 farmers died from suspected pesticide poisoning in 2010. A quarter of farmers surveyed had recently suffered health problems from inhaling pesticides because no protective clothing or masks are used when spraying. Farmers using agro-chemicals are most at risk of poisoning and contamination, but because these chemicals are also making their way into the environment and food produce, the general public is also at risk. Every precaution would be taken to minimize spraying near standing water bodies or streams, and wells. In particular, spray operators would be trained on the risks associated with (a) pouring excess pesticide mixtures in rivers, streams or ponds, (b) washing pesticide application equipment in rivers, streams, ponds and other water bodies and (c) discarding empty pesticide containers in rivers, streams and ponds.

Minimize potential for using pesticides more than necessary.

A basic principle of IPM is judicious use of pesticides. This means that chemical pesticides will be used only as a last resort, for example, in the case of unexpected pest invasion by migratory pests such as armyworms and grasshoppers or grain eating birds. Pesticides would also only be used when it is economic to do so, on a needs basis, after detailed field surveys and assessment of the extent of the pest distribution schedule to prevent pest incidence and damage

Conduct safe pesticide use training

It is important to ensure that beneficiary farmers do not use locally-available pesticides containing banned substances and unregistered products. All field staff will be trained on how to apply this PERSUAP to their work on specific topics outlined in Annex 1 of this PERSUAP.

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Additional pesticides being recommended in this PERSUAPNo. Active

Ingredient Commercial

Product Namein Ghana

USEPA Registration

Status

USEPA Toxicity

Class

Gh EPARegistrati

onStatus

Gh EPAToxicity

Class

Crops Pest/Diseases

Basis for selection

INSECTICIDES1. Abamectin

(18g/L)Bomec EC RUP II-III GUP II Rice

MaizeSoy

Effective for controlling hoppers, beetles, aphids, and caterpillars

Readily available and particularly effective against hoppers in soy fields

2. Acetamiprid (20g/L)Lambda cyhalothrin (15g/L)

K-Optimal EC GUP III GUP II Broad spectrum insecticide

Registered in Ghana, readily available and effective

3. Dimethoate (400g/L)

Dimeking EC GUP II GUP II Broad spectrum insecticide


4. Imidacloprid (200g/L)

Dimiprid 20SL GUP II-III GUP II Maize Insecticide-fungicide powder for seed dressing. Effective against aphids, leaf hoppers and fungi.

Contact and ingestion, Systemic and broad spectrum; widely used insecticide with relatively low human toxicity

5. Indoxacarp (30g/L)Acetamiprid (16g/L)

Viper 46EC GUP III GUP II Maize, rice, soya

Effective against chewing, biting, and sucking insects

Readily available on the market. Protective clothing available.

6. Lambda-cyhalothrin

Lambdacot EC RUP I-III GUP II RiceMaize

Effective against hoppers, beetles,

Readily available on the market.

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No. Active Ingredient

CommercialProduct Name

in Ghana

USEPA Registration

Status

USEPA Toxicity

Class

Gh EPARegistrati

onStatus

Gh EPAToxicity

Class

Crops Pest/Diseases

Basis for selection

(25g/L) aphids and their caterpillars

Protective clothing available.

7. Lambda-cyhalothrin (25g/L)

Striker EC RUP I-III GUP II RiceMaize

Effective against hoppers, beetles, aphids and their caterpillars



Lambda Master 2.5EC

RUP I-III GUP II RiceMaize




Rainlambda 2.5EC




FUNGICIDES10. Imidacloprid

(350g/kg)Thiram (100g/kg)Metalaxyl-M (35g/kg)

Calthio Mix 485WS

GUP II-III GUP II Maize Fungicide for the control of diseases in maize

Relatively low human toxicity, readily available on market, properly packaged.

11. Mancozeb 80%WP

Rainmancoz 80WP

GUP IV GUP III Rice Broad spectrum fungicide with protective properties

Available and registered in Ghana. Protective clothing available.

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in Ghana

USEPA Registration

Status

USEPA Toxicity

Class

Gh EPARegistrati

onStatus

Gh EPAToxicity

Class

Crops Pest/Diseases

Basis for selection

HERBICIDES12. 2,4-D Amine

(720g/L)Wiper 720SL GUP II GUP II Rice Selective Herbicide for

the control of broadleaf weeds

Selective herbicide available and registered in Ghana. Protective clothing available.

13. 2,4-D Amine (720g/L)

Bonamine GUP II GUP II Rice Selective Herbicide for the control of broadleaf weeds


14. 2,4-D Amine (720g/L)

Calliherb GUP II GUP II Rice Selective Herbicide for the control of broadleaf weeds


15. Bispyribac-sodium (400g/L)

Bisonrice 400SC EU Registered

WHO III GUP III Rice Post emergence selective herbicide for control of grasses, sedges, and broad leaves in rice fields

Most effective compared to other selective herbicides for rice. Readily available on market.

16. Glyphosate (41%)

Glycot GUP II-III GUP III RiceMaizeSoy

Annual and perennial broadleaved weeds and grasses

Registered in Ghana. Protective clothing available.


Glycel GUP II-III GUP III RiceMaizeSoy



18. Glyphosate (360g/L)

Sunphosate GUP II-III GUP III RiceMaizeSoy

Herbicide for the control of annual and perennial broad leaf


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in Ghana

USEPA Registration

Status

USEPA Toxicity

Class

Gh EPARegistrati

onStatus

Gh EPAToxicity

Class

Crops Pest/Diseases

Basis for selection

weeds and grasses19. Glyphosate

(360g/L)Kalach 360SL GUP II-III GUP III Rice

MaizeSoy

Herbicide for the control of annual and perennial broad leaf weeds and grasses



Afuo Wura GUP II-III GUP III RiceMaizeSoy




Power GUP II-III GUP III RiceMaizeSoy




Bonsate 480SL GUP II-III GUP III RiceMaizeSoy

Foliar acting non-selective herbicide for control of annual and perennial weeds

Readily available on the market. Less hazardous, protective clothing available


Chemosate 480SL

GUP II-III GUP III RiceMaizeSoy




Nnoboa GUP II-III GUP III RiceMaizeSoy



25. Glyphosate Glyphogan GUP II-III GUP III RiceMaize

Foliar acting non-selective herbicide for

Readily available on the market. Less

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in Ghana

USEPA Registration

Status

USEPA Toxicity

Class

Gh EPARegistrati

onStatus

Gh EPAToxicity

Class

Crops Pest/Diseases

Basis for selection

(480g/L) Soy control of annual and perennial weeds

hazardous, protective clothing available

26. Nicosulfuron (40g/L)

Nicoking GUP III GUP III Maize Post emergence herbicide for control of weeds in maize.

Readily available, especially in the maize belt of Ghana, relatively low toxicity.


Nicogan GUP III GUP III Maize Post emergence herbicide for control of weeds in maize.



Nicoherb GUP III GUP III Maize Post emergence herbicide for control of weeds in maize.



Nico 40OD GUP III GUP III Maize Post emergence herbicide for control of weeds in maize.



Nicoplus GUP III GUP III Maize Post emergence herbicide for control of weeds in maize.


31. Oxadiagyl (400g/L)

Topstar 400SC GUP GUP III Rice Pre-emergence orearly post emergentherbicide for a broad spectrum of weeds in rice

Readily available and used by rice growers in the 3 Regions of Northern Ghana.

32. Pendimethalin Stomp SC GUP III GUP III Maize Control of broad leaf Registered in Ghana.

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in Ghana

USEPA Registration

Status

USEPA Toxicity

Class

Gh EPARegistrati

onStatus

Gh EPAToxicity

Class

Crops Pest/Diseases

Basis for selection

(445g/L) weeds in maize. Protective clothing available.

33. Propanil (360g/L) +2, 4 D Amin (200g/L)

Propanil Plus GUP II-III GUP II Rice Pre-emergence herbicide for the control of broad leaf weeds



Orizo Plus GUP II-III GUP II Rice Pre-emergence herbicide for the control of broad leaf weeds



Rainpropaplus GUP II-III GUP II Rice Pre-emergence herbicide for the control of broad leaf weeds



PropaGold GUP II-III GUP II Rice Pre-emergence herbicide for the control of broad leaf weeds


User and environmental hazards associated with additional pesticides being recommended

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No. Active ingredient/Chemical

Commercial Product Names in Ghana

Acute/Chronic Toxicity (human hazards

Eco-toxicity Groundwater Contamination Potential

Other Comments/Crops

INSECTICIDES1. Abamectin (18g/L Bomec EC May cause slight to

moderate eye and skin irritation. Not readily absorbed through the skin

HT to crustaceans and bees.ST to fish

Very low potential for groundwater contamination

2. Acetamiprid (20g/L)Lambda-cyhalothrin (15g/L)

K-Optimal May cause slight irritation of the eye and skin. Could cause gastrointestinal disorders if swallowed.

Very toxic to aquatic organisms

3. Dimethoate (400g/L) Dimeking EC Moderate to severe skin irritation. Severe irritation of eyes.

Slightly toxic to fish, HT to amphibians and crustaceans and VHT to bees

Potential groundwater contaminant

Do not apply directly to water to areas where surface water is present.


Dimiprid 20SL Acute MT in humans; not listed as carcinogen; unknown as dev/reproductive toxin

Not acutely toxic to fish; VHT to insects, as a systemic, expressed in pollen and nectar

Potential ground water contaminant

The use of imidacloprid should be avoided when crops are flowering.

5. Indoxacarb (30g/L)Acetamiprid (16g/L)

Viper 46EC Indoxacarb may cause mild eye irritation with tearing, & blurred vision. May cause skin sensitization with allergic rashes.

Moderately toxic to bees, HT to fish and crustaceans.

No data found


LambdacotStriker

Eye irritant Highly toxic to fish and aquatic

Do not contaminate ponds, waterways or

Insecticide/Acaricide.

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Lambda MasterRainlambda

invertebrates ditches with chemical or used container

FUNGICIDES7. Mancozeb

(800G/Kg)Rainmancoz 80WP

Acute oral and dermal, toxicity, Probably carcinogen; endocrine disruptor, irritating to respiratory system

HT to fish, aquatic inverts, MT to bees, aquatic plants; RNT to birds

Does not accumulate in soil; moderate potential to contaminate GW

Not listed. Protective clothing required.

8. Imidacloprid (350g/kg)+Thiram (100g/kg)+Metalaxyl-M (35g/kg)

Calthio Mix 485WS

Irritant to eye and skin, acute oral toxicity

VT to aquatic organisms

Insufficient data

HERBICIDES9. 2,4-D 720g Amine Caliherb 720

SL, WiperBonamine

Harmful in contact with skin and if swallowed. Irritating to eyes

Practically non-toxic to organic organisms

Potential for mobility in soil is high. May be used to control aquatic weeds in presence of fish if used in strict accordance with directions for waterweed control

Do not spray crops when under stress.

10. Atrazine (750g/L) +Nicosulfuron (40g/kg)

Herbimais Exposure may cause irritation to skin, eyes, throat, and abnormal liver function.

Atrazibe is RNT to birds and bees, ST to fish, other aquatic life

Insufficient data


Bisonrice 400SC

Acute toxicity.Slightly irritant to eye. Non-irritant to skin.

Toxic to fish and earthworms

Insufficient data

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12. Glyphosate (41%) GlycotGlycel

Irritation to eyes, skin and respiratory system. Harmful if swallowed

Slightly toxic to amphibians, fish and zooplankton. Moderately toxic to crustaceans

The product is practically immobile in soil and is unlikely to leach.

A rain free period of at least 6 hours (preferably 24 hours) must follow application.


SunphosateAfuo Wura


Glyphosate is readily degraded by soil microbes toAMPA (aminomethyl phosphonic acid) that is further degraded to carbon dioxide

Glyphosate andAMPA are unlikely to enter ground water due to their strong adsorptive characteristics.


14. Glyphosate (480g/L) PowerBonsate 480SLChemosate 480SLNnoboaGlyphogan

Slight acute toxicity Slightly toxic to amphibians, fish and zooplankton. Moderately toxic to crustaceans



15. Nicosulfuron (750g/kg)

Arrow 75WDG Slightly irritant to eye and skin

Non-toxic to fish, aquatic invertebrates, soil microbes, birds, mammals and fish.

Potential GW contaminant

16. Nicosulfuron (40g/L) NicokingNicoganNicoherb

Slightly irritant to eye and skin

Non-toxic to fish, aquatic invertebrates, soil


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Nico 40ODNicoplus

microbes, birds, mammals and fish.

17. Oxadiargyl (400g/L) Topstar 400SC No skin irritation, slight eye irritation

PNT to fish, aquatic invertebrates and aquatic plants.

Not applicable For transplanted rice, treat the fluid mud 3 days before transplanting, then water after transplanting. Apply 0.5L per Ha

18. Pendimethalin (445g/L)

Stomp SC Acute toxicity, ST; likely carcinogen, dev/reproductive toxin.

ST to birds, MT to fish, HT to aquatic invertebrates, RNT to bees

Groundwater contaminant

19. Propanil (360g/l) + 2, 4 D Amin (200g/l)

Propanil PlusOrizo PlusRainpropaplusPrpaGold

Low toxicity if swallowed, May cause severe eye irritation with corneal injury, moderate skin irritation

Propanil is HT to aquatic organisms and ST to birds on a dietary basis

Propanil has a moderate bio-concentration potential and medium mobility in soil.

Apply one month after rice is planted

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Summary of recommended active ingredients in this PERSUAP



Insecticides1. Abamectin Bomec EC

2. Acetamiprid + Cypermethrin Chemiprid 88EC

3. Acetamiprid +Lambda-cyhalothrin

K-Optimal

4. Acetamiprid + Bifenthrin Aceta Star 46EC5. Acetamiprid Golan SL6. Dimethoate Dimeking EC7. Fenvalerate Sanitox 20EC

8. Imidacloprid Consider Supa, Dimiprid 20SL

9. Imidacloprid + Thiram Insector TDS10. Indoxacarb

Acetamiprid Viper 46EC

11. Lambda-cyhalothrin Sunhalothrin, Lambda Super, Lambdacot, Striker, Lambda Master, Rainlambda

12. Malathion EnviGold

Fungicides13. Mancozeb Kilazeb 80WP, Dizcozeb 80WP, Rainmancoz

80WP14. Imidacloprid + Thiram +

Metalaxyl-M Calthio Mix 485WS

15. Permethrin + Carbendazim + Chlorothalonil

Seedrex WP

Herbicides16. 2,4-D Amine Herbextra, Sun-2,4 d Amine 72%, Caliherb 720 SL,

Ervextra, Wiper, Bonamine

17. Atrazine + Nicosulfuron Herbimais18. Bispyribac-sodium Bisonrice 400SC19. Glyphosate Glycot, Glycel, Nwura wura SL, Kalach 360SL,

Rival 360SL, Wynna 360SL, Sunphosate, Afuo Wura, Power, Bonsate 480SL, Chemosate 480SL, Nnoboa, Glyphogan, Glyphader, Weedall SL,Sharp 480 SL, Adom 480 SL, Adwuma wura SL, Arrow 75WDG

20. Glyphosate + Oxyfluorfen Zoomer 390SC 21. Metolachlor + Terbutryn Terbulor 500EC22. Nicosulfuron Arrow 75WDG, Nicoking, Nicogan, Nicoherb, Nico

40OD, Nicoplus23. Oxadiargyl Topstar 400SC24. Pendimethalin Alligator 400SC

Stomp SC

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25. Propanil + 2, 4 D Amin Propacal plus 480EC, Propanil Plus, Orizo Plus, Rainpropaplus, PrpaGold

26. Propaquizafop Agil 100EC

Actions required by Objectives/Issues identified in PERSUAP:

Objective Issues Interventions required Outputs

A. PESTICIDE RISK AWARENESSA1. Reduce reliance

on pesticides. Local pest control

options are limited. Pesticides are costly

and may not be used safely.

Follow GAPs recommendations

Use of IPM Practice crop rotation Select resistant

varieties

Reduced incidence of diseases and pests.

More farmers adopt IPM.

A2. Promote use of PPEs

Farmers do not fully appreciate the importance of PPEs

Farmers do not fully appreciate the potential hazards of using pesticides.

Continuous education of farmers on the importance of PPEs

Promote use of less hazardous agrochemicals

Increased use of PPEs by farmers

A3. Discourage re-use of pesticide containers

Containers are used to store household items including food.

Farmers are unaware of the dangers involved.

A sustained campaign to discourage re-use of containers.

Provide a central point for collecting and disposing containers.

Reduced number of people using pesticide containers

A4. Discourage women and children from pesticide application

Limited farm labour compelling women to apply pesticides.

Inability of women to pay for SSP services.

Provide special training to women on the effects of pesticides on women and children.

Reduced cases of women applying pesticides

B. PREVENT ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTIONB1. Promote safe

disposal of pesticide containers

Empty pesticide containers are either left on farms or re-used for domestic purposes.

Some farmers are not aware of the proper methods of disposal.

Set up container collection centers with NFs where all containers used by out-growers will be collected.

Destroy and bury containers or return to manufacturers for re-use.

Reduced incidence empty containers littered on farms.

B2. Minimize ground Pesticide use near water Reduce soil Farmers

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and surface water contamination.

bodies. Pesticide use on wet

fields with flowing water. Pesticide use

immediately after rainfall.

disturbance such as reduced tillage.

Leave a buffer of at least 5m to rivers and streams when spraying:- Flat land: 5m- Gentle slope: 10m- Slope >30o: 15m

adopt conservation farming methods.

B3. Minimize potential for using pesticides more than necessary.

Farmers may apply pesticides, especially for storage grain, without actually encountering the threat of a pest invasion leading sometimes to avoidable high cost of agrochemicals and over application of pesticides.

Promote GAPs and IPM to reduce over reliance on pesticides.

More farmers able to interpret pesticide labels

C. ACTIONS TO ENSURE COMPLIANCEC1.Conduct safe

pesticide use training

Farmers and other persons who handle pesticides have inadequate knowledge of pesticide products and labels.

Develop training content targeting specific groups – farmers, women, dealers, partners etc.

Training contents developed

C2.Promote the services of SSPs

Farmers may do their own spraying because they have no access to trained spray service providers.

Farmers who do their own spraying often do not wear PPEs and may apply more chemical than needed.

Work with NFs and FBOs to include spray services in their extension support to out-growers.

Provide regular training to SSPs on environmental safety procedures.

Training programs for SSPs conducted

C3.Avoid the use of highly toxic products

Farmers do not appreciate the short and long term consequences of very toxic products on their health and the environment.

Some farmers simply do not know the toxic levels of the products they use and the need to avoid them.

Train farmers to read and understand the symbols and colours on pesticide labels.

Promote use of non-chemical pest control option

Farmers adopt IPM approaches

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Implementation of the PERSUAP actions

Activity By whom When1. Training of staff on application of

the PERSUAP.Environmental Specialist

April – May 2016

2. Detailed training on aspects of the PERSUAP to enable ADVANCE field staff to have a better understanding of the PERSUAP contents and application in the field.

Environmental Specialist

Annually

3. Training of farmers on topics identified in the PERSUAP

APOs and RCs Field days at demonstration sites

4. Training SSPs RCs, EPA and MOFA-PPRSD

Continuous

5. Pesticide use monitoring Environmental Specialist and APOs

Production season

Africa Bureau BEO Statement & Disclaimer:

The present ADVANCE II PERSUAP Amendment was submitted to the BEO on Sept. 26, 2016, and immediately, the Sr. Env. Policy Advisor attempted to address issues that arose with the draft. An extensive exchange in ensuing months, but this did not lead to action towards resolution. A face-to-face meeting in January 2017 at USAID/Ghana in Accra, and the emergence of an urgent invasive species affecting food crops, the Fall Armyworm, led to the determination that the submitted ADVANCE II PERSUAP Amendment would be approved as is, and that an additional amendment would be submitted to cover the Fall armyworm. Here is a representative list of issues:

1. There appears to be no 2015 approved ADVANCE II PERSUAP. Only the 2012 original ADVANCE I amended version appears in the USAID Environmental Compliance Database. See above link.

2. This amended ADVANCE II PERSUAP was considered by the implementing partner to be an update and amendment, so it does not replace the original PERSUAP. But if was to be the new replacement PERSUAP, then it should have included all the originally included pesticides as well, except ones that may have been removed from registration by the GhEPA. The revised PERSUAP lists additions as follow: 12 new insecticides added, 3 fungicides, and herbicides (24? added -- numbers differ in various parts of the doc).

3. The MEO affirmed that the "initial idea was to have a Feed the Future PERSUAP and not a project specific PERSUAP. So the Feed the Future Agriculture Technology Transfer (ATT) PERSUAP was developed for that purpose. However, ADVANCE felt the need to have a project-specific PERSUAP that built on the ADVANCE PERSUAP in 2012...."

4. Both the ATT and ADVANCE PERSUAPs address the same sets of crops, but they also illustrate the difference in how pesticides are considered and analyzed.

iv

5. However, ADVANCE felt the need to have a project-specific PERSUAP that builds on the ADVANCE PERSUAP in 2012. So, ADVANCE developed an updated PERSUAP in 2015 but it was not substantively changed from the 2012 PERSUAP; hence the need for this update.

6. It was not clear to the BEO why the choice was made to amend the ADVANCE PERSUAP, when the ATT PERSUAP was more recent, and more comprehensive in many (but not all) respects.

7. The recommended way forward was to revise and update the ATT PERSUAP, and reconcile with, and correct and replace, the updated draft ADVANCE PERSUAP, to properly encompass all FtF needs in Ghana, including specific trademarked pesticide products, if need be. How to achieve this, at the late point in the FtF Cycle, was the challenge at hand.

But, this was not the path chosen, and in the remaining months of ADVANCE, the present ADVANCE II PERSUAP Amendment, and a subsequent amendment to address the newly invasive Fall armyworm outbreak, will stand.

v

APPROVAL OF THE RECOMMENDED ENVIRONMENTAL ACTION:

CLEARANCE:

USAID/Ghana Mission Director: Date: ___

CONCURRENCE: AFR Bureau Environmental Officer: _________/s/___________ Date: 5/11/2017

Approved: x

Disapproved:

Filename: Ghana ADVANCE II PERSUAP Amendment #1.05112017

ADDITIONAL CLEARANCES:

AOR/COR: _______________________________ Date: ___

Mission Environmental Officer: ___________________ Date: ___

AFR/SD/ Regional Environmental Officer: ___________________ Date: ___ (Washington, D.C.)

EG Office Director: ____________ Date: ___

vi

ACRONYMS

ACDEP Association of Church based Projects

ADVANCE Agriculture Development and Value Chain Enhancement

ACDI/VOCA An International Development NGO based in Washington with an established presence and activities in Ghana

EU European Union

FAO Food and Agricultural Organization of the United Nations

FREGhEPA

Fully Registered PesticidesGhana Environmental Protection Agency

GUP General Use pesticide

IEE Initial Environmental Examination

PCL Provisionally Cleared Pesticides

PPRSD Plant Protection and Regulatory Services Directorate

AI Active IngredientBMP Best Management PracticeBT Bacillus thuringiensis (a bacterium that produces a toxin used as a pesticide)CFR Code of Federal RegulationsDDT Dichloro-Diphenyl-TrichloroethaneEC Emulsifiable Concentrate (pesticide formulation)EMMP Environmental Mitigation & Monitoring Plan EU European UnionFAO Food and Agriculture Organization FBO Farmer Based OrganizationGAP Good Agriculture PracticeGW Ground WaterGUP General Use PesticideHa HectaresHT Highly ToxicIEE Initial Environmental ExaminationIPM Integrated Pest ManagementMOFA Ministry of Food and Agriculture (Ghana)MRL Maximum/Minimum Residue Level/LimitMSDS Material Safety Data SheetMT Moderately ToxicNAT Not Acutely ToxicNF Nucleus FarmerOB Outgrower BusinessPAN Pesticide Action NetworkPER Pesticide Evaluation ReportpH Measure of acidity/alkalinity (log of hydrogen concentration)PHI Pre-Harvest IntervalPIC Prior Informed Consent (a treaty on toxic pesticides)

ADVANCE_PERSUAP_September 2016

PMP Pest Management PlanPNT Practically Non-ToxicPOPs Persistent Organic Pollutants (a treaty on toxic persistent pesticides)PPE Personal Protection EquipmentR&D toxin Reproductive and Developmental toxinREI Re-Entry Interval (safety period after pesticide spraying)RNT Relatively Non-ToxicRUP Restricted Use PesticideST Slightly ToxicSSP Spray Service ProviderSUAP Safe Use Action PlanUN United NationsUSAID United States Agency for International DevelopmentUSEPA US Environmental Protection Agency VHT Very Highly ToxicWHO World Health Organization


Table of Contents

SUMMARY OF FINDINGS & RECOMMENDATIONS............................................................................. ii

ACRONYMS.............................................................................................................................................. vi

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY........................................................................................................................... 1

PART 1: INTRODUCTION......................................................................................................................... 3

1.1 Project Background..........................................................................................................................3

1.2 ADVANCE Climate Smart Agriculture approach...........................................................................4

1.3 Methodology......................................................................................................................................9

1.4 Presentation of this PERSUAP.......................................................................................................9

PART 2: PESTICIDE EVALUATION REPORT......................................................................................11

2.1 USEPA & GhEPA registration status of the proposed pesticide...............................................11

2.2 Basis for selecting the recommended pesticides........................................................................30

2.3 Extent to which the proposed pesticide use will be part of an IPM Program........................30

2.4 Alternative Pest Management Options for Maize, Soybean and Rice.....................................32

2.5 Acute and long-term toxicological hazards associated with the proposed use, and measures available to minimize such hazards...............................................................................................................40

2.6 Proposed methods of application, including availability of appropriate application and safety equipment..........................................................................................................................................................40

2.7 Compatibility of the Proposed Pesticides with target and non-target ecosystems.................42

2.8 Conditions under which the pesticide is to be used, including climate, flora, fauna, geography, hydrology and soils......................................................................................................................42

2.9 Availability of other products and non-chemical methods.........................................................43

2.10 Ghana’s ability to regulate or control the distribution storage, use and disposal of the recommended pesticides................................................................................................................................43

2.11 Provisions for training of users and applicators..........................................................................45

2.12 Monitoring use and effectiveness of pesticides..........................................................................45

PART 3: SAFER USE ACTION PLAN....................................................................................................46

ANNEXES................................................................................................................................................. 52

Annex 1: Guidelines for training on safe pesticide use....................................................................52

Annex 2: Elements of an IPM program................................................................................................64

Annex 3: Toxicity of Pesticides: USEPA and WHO Classifications................................................67


Annex 4. Pesticide use monitoring sheet for demo plots.................................................................69

Annex 5. PERSUAP implementation progress in 2015......................................................................71

Annex 6: Pesticide use monitoring report 2015.................................................................................73

Annex 7: Pesticides from the 2015 PERAUAP that have lost their registration status in Ghana.................................................................................................................................................................... 86

Annex 8: Environmental Protection Agency, Accra, List of banned pesticides............................87


EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

This PERSUAP provides a general assessment of the use of pesticides in Ghana as a direct or indirect result of assistance provided through USAID/ADVANCE.

A pesticide use monitoring exercise on demos and desk study was complemented by visits and detailed consultations with pesticide dealers, nucleus farmers (NFs), Ministry of Food and Agriculture (MOFA), Ghana Environmental Protection Agency (GhEPA) and ADVANCE field staff. Field visits were also made to selected farms in the ADVANCE project operational area. Field visits brought to the fore disease conditions and pest incidence, pesticide use patterns and actions taken to ensure safer use of pesticides. Specific pesticides being used and areas requiring support for promoting efficient pesticides management and adoption of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) practices were also identified during the field visits. The information gathered through these visits, interviews and observations were reviewed and critically analyzed in the context of existing framework of the national pesticide management efforts. These provided the basis for the development of a comprehensive and sustainable Pesticide Safer Use Acton Plan in compliance with the requirements for USAID environmental requirements for ADVANCE.

The focus of ADVANCE is to increase the competitiveness of maize, rice and soya value chains in northern Ghana to foster economic growth and reduce poverty, in line with USAID/Ghana’s FTF strategy.

This report has screened the pesticides typically recommended by extension agents and used by farmers in the target districts on the target crops based on their United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) registration status as well as the GhEPA registration status as at December 2015. In section 15 of The Pesticide Control and Management Act (Act 490) Part II, pesticides which have not been registered may not be used in Ghana.

The report stresses the use of non-chemical methods as an important consideration in pest/disease management through the adoption of an IPM approach. The extent to which the proposed pesticides use will be part of an IPM program is given in section 2.3, stressing the need for the adoption of Rationale Pesticide Use (RPU) with the aim to maximize efficacy and mitigate the problems associated with pesticides through improving precision in biological activity of control agents. Thus, good agronomic practices is stressed, emphasizing integrated soil management, nursery management, seed selection, appropriate and timely land preparation practices, row and appropriate spaced planting, record keeping, water management, with appropriate control strategy which ensures environmental sustainability and natural resource conservation. Harvesting and post-harvest as well as marketing strategies are all seen as an integral part of the pest management strategy.

The report is presented in 3 major parts with annexes. Part 2 outlines the results of the pesticide evaluation study addressing the major issues concerned with compliance with the USAID pesticide procedures. Based on the findings of the Pesticides Evaluation report, a Safer Use Action Plan is elaborated in Part 3. The annexes of the report contain more detailed and relevant documentation to various aspects covered in the main body of this report.


PART 1: INTRODUCTION

1.1 Project BackgroundThe ADVANCE Project, Cooperative Agreement # Aid-641-A-14-0001, was awarded to ACDI/VOCA on February 5th, 2014 and is scheduled to end on September 30th, 2018. This four-year and eight month program is a follow-on to the Ghana Agricultural Development and Value Chain Enhancement (ADVANCE I) project which ended on March 13th, 2014.

ADVANCE aims, under this second phase, to link up 113,000 small holder farmers to markets, finance, inputs, equipment and information through Outgrower Businesses (OBs) and traders with capacity to invest in the maize, rice and soybean value chains. The project anticipates 30% increase in participating farmers’ incomes and with 60,000 farmers applying new technologies and practices to increase competitiveness of agricultural value chains in northern Ghana to foster economic growth and reduce poverty, in line with USAID/Ghana’s FTF strategy. The project’s approach is to increase productivity, promote private enterprise development and investment, and ensure that benefits are realized by women and vulnerable groups. ACDI/VOCA and the project sub-recipients, Association of Church based NGOs (ACDEP), TechnoServe, and PAB Consult, will support market facilitation with lead firms, and local advocacy, FBO, and nucleus farmer capacity building activities.

The primary geographical focus of the ADVANCE project is northern Ghana, above the 8th parallel. An extension of ADVANCE activities below the 8th parallel focuses on promoting hybrid maize seed varieties. Originally christened the Ghana Advanced Maize Seed Adoption Program (GAMSAP), the GDA initiative supported by DuPont Pioneer, provides a unique opportunity to leverage public and private resources to contribute to improving the competitiveness of the maize value chain and increase incomes for smallholder farmers in Ghana. The hybrid maize seed program aims to stimulate hybrid maize seed adoption in Ghana as well as expand the sustainable ADVANCE nucleus farmer model to value chain actors in the maize belt region of the country – providing strong post-project potential for continued growth in the sector.

According to Regulation 216, all USAID activities are subject to analysis and evaluation via – at minimum – an Initial Environmental Examination (IEE), and – at maximum – an Environmental Assessment (EA). A large part of Regulation 216 – part 216.3 – is devoted to pesticide use and safety. Part 216.3 requires that 12 pesticide factors be


THE 12 PESTICIDE FACTORS

1. USEPA Registration Status of the Proposed Pesticides

2. Basis for Selection of Pesticides

3. Extent to which the proposed pesticide use is, or could be, part of an IPM program

4. Proposed method or methods of application, including the availability of application and safety equipment

5. Any acute and long-term toxicological hazards, either human or environmental, associated with the proposed use, and measures available to minimize such hazards

6. Effectiveness of the requested pesticide for the proposed use

7. Compatibility of the proposed pesticide use with target and non-target ecosystems

8. Conditions under which the pesticide is to be used, including climate, geography, hydrology, and soils

9. Availability of other pesticides or non-chemical control methods

10. Host country’s ability to regulate or control the distribution, storage, use, and disposal of the requested pesticide

11. Provision for training of users and applicators.

analyzed and recommendations be written to mitigate risks to human health and environmental resources, to be followed up with appropriate training, monitoring and reporting for continuous improvement on risk reduction and adoption of international best practices for crop production, protection and pesticide use safety.

It is not anticipated that the ADVANCE project will be engaged in the direct purchase or distribution of pesticides with project funding, other than for possible limited use on demonstration plots. However, project activities will indirectly result in increased use of inputs, including pesticides, by farmers and producers through an increase and intensification in agricultural production and the development of a services market for application of agrochemicals. Trainings in GAPs and IPM will also implicitly involve promotion of pesticides, as the controlled application of pesticides in accordance with accepted best practices is an important component of GAPs.

The ADVANCE Pesticide management efforts seek to- (i) Ensure compliance with Title 22 of the Code of Federal Regulations section 216, (ii) Promote safe use of agrochemicals, and (iii) Prevent environmental Pollution as a result of improper pesticide applications and

disposal.

The project will implement programs that reduce reliance on agrochemicals through an IPM approach. When the use of pesticides is unavoidable, the project advocates for the use of PPEs that is appropriate for the specific agrochemical being promoted. The project will also take precaution to prevent the re-use of empty pesticide containers by promoting safe disposal methods. Women and children are strongly discouraged from pesticide applications. The project will further ensure that highly toxic and banned pesticides are not promoted. Safe use training will be incorporated in any pesticide promotion activities by the project.

1.2 Methodology This PERSUAP paid particular attention to field experiences from demonstration plots in the 2015 crop season, noting diseases that have been recorded and the issues that were associated with disease management of demo fields.

Consultation visits were conducted to pesticide distributors and shops, farmers and demonstration farms, and field project implementation staff in Wa, Bolgatanga, Tamale and Kumasi. Information was collected on pests, IPM, pesticide risks, and risk mitigation measures. A detailed desk study and analysis of relevant documents was also done. The documents consulted included the following:-• Africa Pesticide Product List Database.

(http://www.encapafrica.org/pesticide_database.htm)• EU Pesticides Database - Active Substances as at 17/03/2016.

(http://ec.europa.eu/food/plant/pesticides/eu-pesticides-database/public/?event=activesubstance.selection&language=EN)

• Environmental Protection Agency, Accra, Revised Register of Pesticides as at December 2015 under Part II of the Environmental Protection Act, 1994 (Act 490).

• The ADVANCE approved PERSUAP 2012


• Title 22 of the Code of federal regulations Section 216

• The WHO pesticide hazard classification

• Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) of Active Ingredients proposed in this PERSUAP.

• The pesticides control and management Act, 1996 (Act 528)

• ATT approved PERSUAP 2014

• MOFA/GCAP Pest Management Plan

• Handbook of crop Protection Recommendations in Ghana: An IPM Approach, vols. 1, 2, 3 & 4

• Chapter 13 of the USAID Environmental Guidelines for Small-Scale Activities in Africa.

The information gathered through consultations visits, observations, and literature reviews were critically analyzed in the context of the ADVANCE project objectives, the ADVANCE climate smart strategy, and Ghana’s pest management policy following the 12 point pesticide evaluation criteria as provided for in Regulation 216.

1.3 Presentation of this PERSUAPThis report is divided into four Parts made of Parts 1-3 and Annexes.

Part one provides general background information to the ADVANCE project as well as this report including information on the project’s response to climate change. Part two is the Pesticide Evaluation Report which provides an analysis of the results of a pesticide evaluation study based on the 12 factors required by USAID pesticide procedures. Critical issues regarding safer use of pesticides are discussed and recommendations for mitigating them are given. Based on the findings of the pesticides evaluation report, a Safer Use Action Plan is elaborated in Part 3.

The annexes contain more detailed and relevant documentation to various aspects covered in the main body of the PERSUAP, including a detailed training guide for Spray Service Providers and a report of the pesticide use monitoring conducted in the 2015 crop season.


PART 2: PESTICIDE EVALUATION REPORTThe information presented in the Pesticide Evaluation Report corresponds to the 12 factors in 22 CFR 216.3, USAID’s Pesticide Procedures. It addresses pesticide choices based upon environmental and human health issues, uses, alternate options, IPM, biodiversity, conservation, training, PPE options, monitoring and mitigation recommendations.

2.1 USEPA & GhEPA registration status of the proposed pesticideUSAID is effectively limited to using pesticide active ingredients registered in the U.S. by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency for the same or similar uses. Other pesticides not registered in the U.S. may be authorized, but only if the USAID program can show that alternatives are not available, as required under USAID Pest Management Guidelines for the use on non-U.S. registered pesticides. USAID also require that host country pesticide registration procedures are identified and followed.

Issue: Unregistered pesticidesThe GhEPA register of pesticides is revised quarterly to take products that have lost their registration status and to include newly registered substances. There are basically 2 categories of registration. A full registration is valid for 3 years, while a provisional clearance permit is valid for up to a year. It is not uncommon to find unregistered pesticide products in pesticide retail shops with the project area. Pesticides marked NOT FOR SALE may also be found, as well as pesticides registered for use in neighboring Burkina Faso, Togo, and Ivory Coast.

Recommendation:This PERSUAP lists the pesticide products that are recommended for use on the project in Table 2-1. This approach eliminates the potential for Field Officers to select pesticides based on only recommended Active Ingredients what has the potential of resulting in the selection of unregistered pesticides.

Issue: Unlicensed pesticide dealersOn market days in remote communities, provision shops and table top sellers may be seen selling pesticide products as part of their business. These are not licensed pesticide sellers. They also lack the required training to transport and store pesticides in a safe manner to minimize human and environmental contamination. This practice is unlawful. Purchasing pesticides from such retailers is also unlawful

Recommendation:The project is already working with a number of registered pesticide dealers and linking farmers to them. The linkage between farmers and pesticide dealers should be sustained by encouraging pesticide dealers to sponsor demonstration plots and attend field days as well.


Table 2- 1: List of recommended pesticides, registration status and the basis for their selection



in Ghana

USEPA Registration

Status

USEPA Toxicity

Class

Gh EPARegistrati

onStatus

Gh EPAToxicity

Class

Crops Pest/Diseases

Basis for selection

INSECTICIDES1. Abamectin

(18g/L)Bomec EC RUP II-III GUP II Rice

MaizeSoy

Effective for controlling hoppers, beetles, aphids, and caterpillars

Readily available and particularly effective against hoppers in soy fields

2. Acetamiprid (16g/L)Cypermithrin (12g/L)

Chemiprid 88EC GUP II-III II RiceMaizeSoy

Broad spectrum insecticide for control of insects in field crops


3. Acetamiprid (16g/L)Bifenthrin (30g/L)

Aceta Star 46EC GUP III GUP II Soy Control of bollworms, moths, capsids and defoliators


4. Acetamiprid (20g/L)Lambda cyhalothrin (15g/L)

K-Optimal EC GUP III GUP II Broad spectrum insecticide


5.1

Acetamiprid (200g/L)

Golan 20SP GUP III GUP III Maize Aphids and hoppers Registered in Ghana, readily available and effective

6. Dimethoate (400g/L)

Dimeking EC GUP II GUP II Broad spectrum insecticide


7. Fenvalerate (200g/L)

Sanitox 20EC GUP III GUP II Soy Control of insect pests in vegetables, pulses, cowpea and soybean


ADVANCE_PERSUAP_September 2016 6



in Ghana

USEPA Registration

Status

USEPA Toxicity

Class

Gh EPARegistrati

onStatus

Gh EPAToxicity

Class

Crops Pest/Diseases

Basis for selection


Consider Supa 200SL

GUP II-III GUP II MaizeSoy

Insecticide for the control of sucking insects



Dimiprid 20SL GUP II-III GUP II Maize Insecticide-fungicide powder for seed dressing. Effective against aphids, leaf hoppers and fungi.


10. Imidacloprid (350g/kg)+ Thiram (100g/kg)

Insector TDS GUP II-III GUP III Maize Insecticide-fungicide powder for seed dressing. Effective against aphids, leaf hoppers and fungi.


11. Indoxacarp (30g/L)Acetamiprid (16g/L)

Viper 46EC GUP III GUP II Maize, rice, soya

Effective against chewing, biting, and sucking insects



Sunhalothrin 2.5EC




13. Lambda-cyhalothrin

Lambda Super 2.5EC


Effective against hoppers, beetles,

Readily available on the market.




in Ghana

USEPA Registration

Status

USEPA Toxicity

Class

Gh EPARegistrati

onStatus

Gh EPAToxicity

Class

Crops Pest/Diseases

Basis for selection

(25g/L) aphids and their caterpillars



Lambdacot EC RUP I-III GUP II RiceMaize




Striker EC RUP I-III GUP II RiceMaize




Lambda Master 2.5EC





Rainlambda 2.5EC




18. Malathion (700g/L)

EnviGold GUP II-III GUP III RiceMaizeSoy

Non-systemic insecticide and acaride for storage


FUNGICIDES




in Ghana

USEPA Registration

Status

USEPA Toxicity

Class

Gh EPARegistrati

onStatus

Gh EPAToxicity

Class

Crops Pest/Diseases

Basis for selection

19. Imidacloprid (350g/kg)Thiram (100g/kg)Metalaxyl-M (35g/kg)

Calthio Mix 485WS

GUP II-III GUP II Maize Fungicide for the control of diseases in maize

Relatively low human toxicity, readily available on market, properly packaged.

20. Mancozeb (800G/Kg)

Kilazeb 80WP GUP IV GUP III Rice Control of leave spots, mildew, leaf blight, and scab in vegetables, fruits, ornamentals and field crops


21. Mancozeb (800G/Kg)

Dizcozeb 80WP GUP IV GUP III Rice Broad spectrum fungicide with protective properties


22. Mancozeb 80%WP

Rainmancoz 80WP

GUP IV GUP III Rice Broad spectrum fungicide with protective properties


23. Permethrin (33%) + Carbendazim (15%) + Chlorothalonil (12%)

Seedrex WP GUP GUP III Maize Fungicide for seed treatment


HERBICIDES24. 2,4-D Amine

(720g/L)Herbextra 72SL GUP II GUP II Rice

MaizeSelective Herbicide for the control of broadleaf weeds


25. 2,4-D Amine Sun-2,4 D GUP II GUP II Rice Selective Herbicide for Registered in Ghana.




in Ghana

USEPA Registration

Status

USEPA Toxicity

Class

Gh EPARegistrati

onStatus

Gh EPAToxicity

Class

Crops Pest/Diseases

Basis for selection

(720g/L) Amine 72SL the control of broadleaf weeds


26.28

2,4-D Amine (720g/L)

Ervextra 72SL GUP II GUP II Rice Selective Herbicide for the control of broadleaf weeds


27. 2,4-D Amine (720g/L)

Wiper 720SL GUP II GUP II Rice Selective Herbicide for the control of broadleaf weeds


28. 2,4-D Amine (720g/L)

Bonamine GUP II GUP II Rice Selective Herbicide for the control of broadleaf weeds


29. 2,4-D Amine (720g/L)

Calliherb GUP II GUP II Rice Selective Herbicide for the control of broadleaf weeds



Bisonrice 400SC EU Registered

WHO III GUP III Rice Post emergence selective herbicide for control of grasses, sedges, and broad leaves in rice fields

Most effective compared to other selective herbicides for rice. Readily available on market.


Glycot GUP II-III GUP III RiceMaizeSoy






in Ghana

USEPA Registration

Status

USEPA Toxicity

Class

Gh EPARegistrati

onStatus

Gh EPAToxicity

Class

Crops Pest/Diseases

Basis for selection


Glycel GUP II-III GUP III RiceMaizeSoy




Nwura Wura SL GUP II-III GUP III RiceMaizeSoy




Kalach 360SL GUP II-III GUP III RiceMaizeSoy




Rival 360SL GUP II-III GUP III RiceMaizeSoy




Wynna 360SL GUP II-III GUP III RiceMaizeSoy




Sunphosate GUP II-III GUP III RiceMaizeSoy




Kalach 360SL GUP II-III GUP III RiceMaizeSoy




Afuo Wura GUP II-III GUP III RiceMaize

Herbicide for the control of annual and

Registered in Ghana. Protective clothing




in Ghana

USEPA Registration

Status

USEPA Toxicity

Class

Gh EPARegistrati

onStatus

Gh EPAToxicity

Class

Crops Pest/Diseases

Basis for selection

Soy perennial broad leaf weeds and grasses

available.


Power GUP II-III GUP III RiceMaizeSoy




Bonsate 480SL GUP II-III GUP III RiceMaizeSoy




Chemosate 480SL





Nnoboa GUP II-III GUP III RiceMaizeSoy




Glyphogan GUP II-III GUP III RiceMaizeSoy




Glyphader GUP II-III GUP III RiceMaizeSoy






in Ghana

USEPA Registration

Status

USEPA Toxicity

Class

Gh EPARegistrati

onStatus

Gh EPAToxicity

Class

Crops Pest/Diseases

Basis for selection


Weedall SL GUP II-III GUP III RiceMaizeSoy

Control of annual perrenial grasses and broad leaved weeds


47.20

Glyphosate (480g/L)

Sharp 480SL GUP II-III GUP III RiceMaizeSoy

Annual & perennial grasses and broadleaved weeds



Adom 48SL GUP II-III GUP III RiceMaizeSoy

Herbicide for the control of annual perennial grasses and broadleaf weeds in cereals and vegetables



Adwuma wura SL


Non-selective herbicide for the control of annual and perennial grasses and broad leaf weeds


50. Glyphosate (360g/L)Oxyfluorfen (30g/L

Zoomer 390SC GUP II-III GUP III RiceMaizeSoy

Herbicide for the control of annual and perennial broadleaf weeds and grasses

Works well against tough grasses like spear grass.

51. Metolachlor (333g/L)Terbutryn (167g/L)

Terbulor 500EC GUP II-III GUP III Maize Pre-emergence herbicide for control of weeds in maize, cassava, and cotton.



Arrow 75WDG GUP III GUP III Maize Post emergence herbicide for control of weeds in maize.

Registered in Ghana. Readily available in Northern Ghana.




in Ghana

USEPA Registration

Status

USEPA Toxicity

Class

Gh EPARegistrati

onStatus

Gh EPAToxicity

Class

Crops Pest/Diseases

Basis for selection



Nicoking GUP III GUP III Maize Post emergence herbicide for control of weeds in maize.



Nicogan GUP III GUP III Maize Post emergence herbicide for control of weeds in maize.



Nicoherb GUP III GUP III Maize Post emergence herbicide for control of weeds in maize.



Nico 40OD GUP III GUP III Maize Post emergence herbicide for control of weeds in maize.



Nicoplus GUP III GUP III Maize Post emergence herbicide for control of weeds in maize.


58. Oxadiagyl (400g/L)

Topstar 400SC GUP GUP III Rice Pre-emergence orearly post emergentherbicide for a broad spectrum of weeds in rice


59.17

Pendimethalin (400g/L)

Alligator 400EC GUP III GUP III Rice Selective herbicide for control of broadleaf weeds.





in Ghana

USEPA Registration

Status

USEPA Toxicity

Class

Gh EPARegistrati

onStatus

Gh EPAToxicity

Class

Crops Pest/Diseases

Basis for selection


Stomp SC GUP III GUP III Maize Control of broad leaf weeds in maize.


61. Propanil (240g/L) +2, 4 D Isobutylate (240g/L)

Propacal-Plus 480EC

GUP II-III GUP II Rice Selective post emergence herbicide for the control of broad leaf weeds

Registered in Ghana. Available in Northern Ghana. Protective clothing available.


Propanil Plus GUP II-III GUP II Rice Pre-emergence herbicide for the control of broad leaf weeds



Orizo Plus GUP II-III GUP II Rice Pre-emergence herbicide for the control of broad leaf weeds



Rainpropaplus GUP II-III GUP II Rice Pre-emergence herbicide for the control of broad leaf weeds



PropaGold GUP II-III GUP II Rice Pre-emergence herbicide for the control of broad leaf weeds


66. Propaquizafop Agil 100EC GUP GUP III Soy Post-emergence Readily available and




in Ghana

USEPA Registration

Status

USEPA Toxicity

Class

Gh EPARegistrati

onStatus

Gh EPAToxicity

Class

Crops Pest/Diseases

Basis for selection

(100g/l) selective gramicide for controlling grasses in broad leaf crops

used by soy farmers in the 3 Regions of Northern Ghana.


Table 2- 2: User and environmental hazards associated with the recommended pesticides






INSECTICIDES27. Abamectin (18g/L Bomec EC May cause

slight to moderate eye and skin irritation. Not readily absorbed through the skin

HT to crustaceans and bees.ST to fish

Very low potential for groundwater contamination

28. Acetamiprid (16g/L) + cypermethrin (12g/L)

Chemiprid 88EC Unlikely to accumulate in the body when small doses are ingested.

Cypermethrin is highly toxic to fish and bees.Low toxicity to birds

Cypermethrin is unlikely to contaminate groundwater because it binds tightly to soil particles.

29. Acetamiprid (20g/L)Lambda-cyhalothrin (15g/L)

K-Optimal May cause slight irritation of the eye and skin. Could cause gastrointestinal disorders if swallowed.


30. Acetamiprid (16g/L)Bifenthrin (30g/L)

Aceta Star 46EC

May cause slight irritation of the eye and skin. Could cause


Insufficient data Avoid use in aquatic environments







gastrointestinal disorders if swallowed.

31. Acetamiprid (200g/L) Golan SL Acute toxicity unknown; carcinogen not likely; not cholinesterase inhibitor; not developmental/reproductive toxin

MT to fish and wildlife; selective toxicity to insects; MT to bees; minimal risk to non-target plants

Degrades rapidly by aerobic soil metabolism. Does not bio-accumulate in fish and in sediment.

32. Dimethoate (400g/L) Dimeking EC Moderate to severe skin irritation. Severe irritation of eyes.

Slightly toxic to fish, HT to amphibians and crustaceans and VHT to bees

Potential groundwater contaminant

Do not apply directly to water to areas where surface water is present.

33. Fenvalerate (200g/L)

Sanitox 20EC Irritant to skin and eyes.

Harmful to game, wild birds and livestock. Toxic to bees

Not listed No smoking or drinking when using product.


Consider SupaDimiprid 20SL

Acute MT in humans; not listed as carcinogen; unknown as dev/reproductive toxin

Not acutely toxic to fish; VHT to insects, as a systemic, expressed in pollen and nectar


The use of imidacloprid should be avoided when crops are flowering.

35. Imidacloprid (350g/kg)Thiram (100g/kg)

Insector TDS Irritant to eye and skin. Acute oral toxicity.

Very toxic to aquatic organisms.


36. Indoxacarb (30g/L) Viper 46EC Indoxacarb may Moderately toxic to No data found







Acetamiprid (16g/L) cause mild eye irritation with tearing, & blurred vision. May cause skin sensitization with allergic rashes.

bees, HT to fish and crustaceans.


Sunhalothrin Lambda SuperLambdacotStrikerLambda MasterRainlambda

Eye irritant Highly toxic to fish and aquatic invertebrates

Do not contaminate ponds, waterways or ditches with chemical or used container

Insecticide/Acaricide.

38. Malathion (700g/L) EnviGold Eye irritation including redness, tearing, and blurred vision. Repeated skin contact may cause irritation. Aspiration into lungs can cause pneumonitis. This condition may be fatal.

Malathion is biodegradable. It undergoes rapid degradation in the environment. Toxic to fish, aquatic invertebrates, and aquatic life stages of amphibians. Highly toxic to bees.

FUNGICIDES39. Mancozeb Kilazeb 80WP, Acute oral and HT to fish, aquatic Does not Not listed. Protective







(800G/Kg) Dizcozeb 80WP,Rainmancoz 80WP

dermal, toxicity, Probably carcinogen; endocrine disruptor, irritating to respiratory system

inverts, MT to bees, aquatic plants; RNT to birds

accumulate in soil; moderate potential to contaminate GW

clothing required.

40. Imidacloprid (350g/kg)+Thiram (100g/kg)+Metalaxyl-M (35g/kg)

Calthio Mix 485WS

Irritant to eye and skin, acute oral toxicity

VT to aquatic organisms

Insufficient data

41. Permethrin (33%) + Carbendazim (15%) + Chlorothalonil (12%)

Seedrex WP Irritant to eye and skin.

Permethrin and Carbendazim are highly toxic to aquatic organisms, bees and birds

Chlorothalonil has limited potential to reach GW, and where it has been detected, concentrations have been low.

Permethrin is a restricted use product.

HERBICIDES42. 2,4-D 720g Amine Herbextra,

Sun-2,4 d Amine 72%, Caliherb 720 SL, Ervextra, WiperBonamine

Harmful in contact with skin and if swallowed. Irritating to eyes

Practically non-toxic to organic organisms

Potential for mobility in soil is high. May be used to control aquatic weeds in presence of fish if used in strict accordance with directions for waterweed control

Do not spray crops when under stress.







43. Atrazine (750g/L) +Nicosulfuron (40g/kg)

Herbimais Exposure may cause irritation to skin, eyes, throat, and abnormal liver function.

Atrazibe is RNT to birds and bees, ST to fish, other aquatic life

Insufficient data


Bisonrice 400SC

Acute toxicity.Slightly irritant to eye. Non-irritant to skin.

Toxic to fish and earthworms

Insufficient data

45. Glyphosate (41%) GlycotGlycel






Nwura wura SL, Kalach 360SL,Rival 360SL,Wynna 360SL,SunphosateAfuo Wura


Glyphosate is readily degraded by soil microbes toAMPA (aminomethyl phosphonic acid) that is further degraded to carbon dioxide

Glyphosate andAMPA are unlikely to enter ground water due to their strong adsorptive characteristics.


47. Glyphosate (480g/L) PowerBonsate 480SLChemosate 480SLNnoboaGlyphoganGlyphaderWeedall SL

Slight acute toxicity










Sharp 480 SL, Adom 480 SL, Adwuma wura SL,

48. Glyphosate (360g/L) +Oxyfluorfen (360g/L)

Zoomer 390SC Irritant to eyes and skin. Harmful if swallowed.

Oxyfluorfen is non-toxic to birds and bees, but HT to aquatic invertebrates, aquatic plants and fish.

Oxyfluorfen is practically insoluble in water and has a tendency to absorb to soil.

Do not apply directly on areas where surface water is present.

49. Glyphosate (757g/Kg)

Arrow 75WDG Slightly toxic to amphibians, fish and zooplankton. Moderately toxic to crustaceans


Not likely A rain free period of at least 6 hours (preferably 24 hours) must follow application. Protective clothing required.

50. Metolachlor (333g/L) + Terbutryn (16g/L)

Terbulor 500EC No carcinogenic potential

Terbutryn is MT to fish, ST to bees and MT to earthworms

Has the potential to accumulate in GW


Arrow 75WDG Slightly irritant to eye and skin



52. Nicosulfuron (40g/L) NicokingNicoganNicoherbNico 40ODNicoplus

Slightly irritant to eye and skin



53. Oxadiargyl (400g/L) Topstar 400SC No skin irritation, slight

PNT to fish, aquatic invertebrates and

Not applicable For transplanted rice, treat the fluid mud 3 days







eye irritation aquatic plants. before transplanting, then water after transplanting. Apply 0.5L per Ha


Alligator 400SC Acute toxicity, ST; likely carcinogen, dev/reproductive toxin.




Stomp SC Acute toxicity, ST; likely carcinogen, dev/reproductive toxin.



56. Propanil (240g/l) + 2, 4 D isobutylate (200g/l)

Propacal plus 480 EC




57. Propanil (360g/l) + 2, 4 D Amin (200g/l)

Propanil PlusOrizo PlusRainpropaplusPrpaGold




Apply one month after rice is planted

58. Propaquizafop Agil 100EC Eye and skin irritant

Not toxic to bees Not persistent in soil. Half-life time: 15-26 daysWater: Half-life







time <1 day;VHT=very highly toxic, HT=highly toxic, MT=moderately toxic, T=toxic, ST=slightly toxic, RNT=relatively non-toxic.


2.2 Basis for selecting the recommended pesticides

This procedure generally refers to the practical, economic and environmental rationales for choosing a particular pesticide. In general, best practices require that the least toxic pesticide that is effective is selected. Farmers normally will select a pesticide based on price, effectiveness and availability. Farmers require a pesticide that has rapid knock-down action to satisfy the need to defeat the pest quickly and visibly.

Issue: Farmers do not consider environmental and human safety in choosing pesticidesFarmers are generally aware of the potential dangers associated with using pesticides but are not sure of which products they should avoid.

Farmers depend on pesticide shop operators who recommend pesticides for them to purchase. Pesticide dealers themselves do not often consider the environmental and human safety issues in recommending pesticides to farmers.

RecommendationsIn consultation with the Ghana EPA and MOFA-PPRSD, pesticide dealers and ADVANCE field officers the pesticides in Table 1-1, which are typically used in the three Northern Regions and the locations below the 8th parallel where ADVANCE is operational, have been recommended for use on the project.

i. Train farmers to choose and use pesticides with low human and environmental risk profiles.

ii. During training courses, include training on pesticide selection factors based on findings and recommendations of this PERSUAP.

2.3 Extent to which the proposed pesticide use will be part of an IPM Program

The susceptibility of crop plants to pests and diseases is greatly influenced by the general health of the plant. Therefore, good crop management practices can strongly affect IPM, and good agronomic or cultural practices are the most basic and often the most important prerequisites for an effective IPM program. A healthy crop optimizes both capacity to prevent or tolerate pest damage while maintaining or increasing yield potential. Among the methods commonly used in northern Ghana include planting in rows (for some crops), weed control, crop rotation, sanitation, and hand picking.

While encouraging farmers to continue to use the above mentioned practices for pest control, ADVANCE II will promote the adoption of improved seed, proper fertilization, as well as reduce tillage and use of cover crops to maintain a healthy crop and increase yield.

Under ADVANCE I, training was provided for input dealers in collaboration with EPA and MOFA-PPRSD. ADVANCE II will continue to work with input dealers who have become the main source of information on pesticide use and application for farmers, to increase their


capacity and knowledge to provide appropriate pesticide use advice to farmers who patronize their services. Appropriate training will also be provided to project managers and leaders of organized farmer groups in safe pesticide use and appropriate application techniques. This will provide the farmers easy access to the correct and reliable information on pesticides use and their application techniques. Table 2-3 provides 15 general principles adopted in the MOFA/GCAP Pest Management Plan for cereals and pulses.

Table 2- 3: Principles for pest management in cereals and pulsesPrinciple Cereals PulsesPrinciple 1 Obtain good seeds Obtain good seeds

Principle 2 Select fertile soils and suitable planting sites

Select fertile soils

Principle 3 Plan crop rotation Plan crop rotation

Principle 4 Adopt appropriate planting distances and planting patterns

Adopt appropriate planting distances and planting patterns

Principle 5 Plant crops at appropriate times

Plant crops at appropriate times so that their growth coincides with low pest and disease incidence

Principle 6 Weed early and regularly Weed early and regularly Principle 7 Adopt good soil

management practices

Adopt good soil management practices

Principle 8 Adopt suitable water management practices

Adopt good soil management practices

Principle 9 Visit fields regularly Visit fields regularlyPrinciple 10 Maintain high levels of

sanitation in the field

Maintain high levels of sanitation in the field

Principle 11 Manage pests and diseases efficiently

Manage pests and diseases efficiently

Principle 12 Enhance and protect the populations of natural enemies (e.g. predatory ants, hover flies, ladybirds, spiders, assassin bugs and parasitic wasps)

Enhance and protect the populations of natural enemies (e.g. predatory ants, hover flies, ladybirds, spiders, assassin bugs and parasitic wasps)

Principle 13 Minimize the application of Minimize the application of


chemical pesticides chemical pesticidesPrinciple 14 Adopt good harvesting

methodsAdopt good harvesting methods

Principle 15 Adopt appropriate and clean storage systems

Adopt appropriate and clean storage systems

Sources: MoFA/GCAP: Pest Management Plan 2011.

2.4 Alternative Pest Management Options for Maize, Soybean and Rice

Farmers are prone to rely on use of pesticides in the field and in storage to control pests and diseases. Non-chemical methods are however available to complement chemical methods for the production and storage of healthy grains. The alternative pest management methods analyzed below for maize, rice and soya pays attention to both pre and post-harvest methods for the management of pests and diseases.

Maize – Table 2-4 provides recommended management practices for major pests and diseases in maize with more emphasis on pre-harvest pests and diseases. The major concerns of farmers under maize production are losses associated with post-harvest infestation. Farmers are quick to sell their produce partly because of the inability to store grain. If farmers can store grain for longer periods they will realize better sales in the lean season than immediately after harvest.

Maize can store for a considerable period in unprocessed form without undergoing deterioration. Its shelf life greatly depends on the prevailing ambient temperature and relative humidity, and other factors like the inherent moisture, pests, and diseases. Therefore, recommended post-harvest handling and managing operations involve the manipulation of the above factors in order to obtain high quality maize grains.

Quality control starts with harvesting. Harvesting is the single deliberate action to separate the cob from its grown medium. The optimum time of harvesting maize is when the stalks have dried and moisture of grain as about 20-17%. The follow should be observed during harvesting:

Harvest maize as soon as it is dry. It could be attacked by weevils if harvest is delayed. Early harvesting also releases the field for early land preparation for areas with two planting seasons.

Keep the grain as clean as possible. Dry maize on cement floor or use tarpaulin to reduce chance of contamination.

At home, do not first heap the cobs in any room, kitchen or in the yard because this will expose them to all the dangers that cause post-harvest losses. Transfer them to the drying place immediately.

After harvesting, the greatest enemy of grain is moisture. Wet grains attract insects and mold. Therefore, the grain must be dried as soon as possible after harvesting. Drying is the systematic reduction of crop moisture down to safe levels for storage, usually 12%-15.5% moisture content. It is one of the key post-harvest operations since all down-stream operations depend on it. This is particularly so for ADVANCE south where humidity and rainfall remain high at harvesting delaying the harvest and constraining actual drying.


Table 2- 4: Alternative pest management options for maizeMaize= (Zea mays)

Num Major pests and diseases/Stage

Recommended management practices

1 Armyworms (Spodoptera exempta)

(Pre-harvest stage)

• Use pheromone traps to detect when adult moths are flying and preparing to lay eggs

• During outbreaks immediately contact PPRSD/DAES

• Use approved short-term persistence pesticides to spray young caterpillars

2 Larger grain borers (Prostephanus truncatus)

(Post-harvest)

• Use air tight and clean containers for storage

• Store in clean, well-aerated stores with low relative humidity

• De-husk and thresh after harvest

• Ensure grain is properly dried, cleaned before storage

• • Dust with recommended insecticide and/or botanical extracts

3 Greater grain weevil (Sitophilus spp.)

4 Stem borers (Busseola fusca, Sesamia calamistis, Eldana saccharina)

(Pre-harvest stage)

• Intercropping with pulses

• Early sowing and early maturing varieties reduce infestation

• Destroy (make compost, burn or feed livestock) crop residues

• Apply neem seed cake during planting (4gm/hole)

• Apply neem cake (a 50:50 mixture of neem and sawdust) at the rate of 1g per plant into the funnels in cereal stems

• Use the extract botanical pesticides5 Maize streak virus (virus

transmitted by leaf hoppers)

(Pre-harvest stage)

• Early planting

• Observe recommended time of planting to avoid the diseases

• Plant certified seeds/tolerant varieties

6 Striga (witchweed) (Striga hermonthica, S. asiatica) and all other weeds

(Pre-harvest)

• Crop rotation

• Proper land preparation

• Timely weeding (at 2 and 5 weeks after planting)

• Use recommended herbicides when necessary

• Witch weed (Striga spp) - Hand pulling before flowering to avoid seed formation

• Use of false host plants e.g. rotation of maize with legumes

• • Application of large quantities of farm yard manureSources: MoFA/GCAP Pest Management Plan 2011.


Rice – Table 2- 5 provides recommended management practices for pests and disease conditions in rice.

Table 2- 5: Available pest management options for rice in GhanaRICE (Oryza sativa)Pest Names Symptom or Damage Cultural Practices and Direct

InterventionsSeedling blight Corticium/Sclerotium rolfsiiFusarium spp.

Occasional disease. Affected plants grow slowly; leaves turn yellow and dry up due to a rot at the base of the stems, which becomes dark brown.

Deep ploughing to bury crop debris reduces the disease.Use recommended chemicals for seed treatment and field sprays with appropriate fungicides and antibiotics (e.g. kasugamycin).

Brown leaf spot, Cochliobolus miyebeanus Bipolaris = (Helminthosporium oryzea)

Major disease. Affects coleoptiles and leaf blades, leaf sheaths and glumes but most commonly seen on leaves. Spots appear as minute brown dots becoming oval to circular with light brown, fawn or grey center and dark or reddish margin. Seedlings are often more susceptible. Fungus is seed-borne. Fungus may also attack the grains forming small oval spots on glumes. Heavy attack can result in blackening of the grains, which becomes lightweight with spotted hulls.

Careful use of fertilizer can do much to prevent the disease.Burn or feed stubbles after harvest (stubble management).Hot water seed treatment.Seed treatment with appropriate fungicides.

Sheath blight, Corticium = Rhizoctonia oryza

Large necrotic lesions, irregular with reddish brown margins. Most common below lingual. Both seedlings and mature plants affected

Field sanitation and stubble management (i.e. burning or feeding of debris after harvest to livestock).Ensure balanced nutrition.Avoid close planting to reduce humidity.Spray appropriate fungicides.

Sheath rot Graying brown spots with grayish centers on uppermost leaf sheath that encloses youngest panicle. Common in

Field sanitation and stubble management (i.e. burning or feeding of debris after harvest to livestock).Balance nutrition.


irrigated sites Avoid close planting to reduce humidity.Use appropriate fungicides.

Rice blast,Pyricularia oryzae

The most widespread and destructive disease of rice. Can affect all aerial parts of rice. Spots appear on leaves and coalesce resulting in whitening.

Time of planting influence blast development (do not plant too early nor too late).Avoid application of excessive amounts of nitrogenous fertilizers.Avoid close planting in the nurseries.Use resistant varieties.Burn stubbles after harvest (stubble management).Foliar spray of a recommended antibiotic or fungicides.

False green smut,Ustilaginoides virens

The head becomes filled with orange colored masses of spores. Spores replace grains. Common in irrigated sites.

Field sanitation and stubble management (i.e. burning or feeding of debris after harvest to livestock).Seed treatment or use hot water treatment if disease occurred already in earlier seasons.

White tip,Aphelenchoides besseyi

Minor disease. Tips of leaves become light yellow to white, then darker and die off. Plants are stunted. Panicles poorly formed and smaller. Nematode live on aerial parts of the plants invading the grain as it matures. The nematode becomes dormant under the husk.

Avoid the use of infected seeds.Hot water treatment of seeds.Burn stubbles after harvest.

Virus,Rice YellowMottle virus

Minor disease. Chlorosis and stunting leading to reduction in yield.

Use resistant varieties.

African rice gall midge, Orseolia oryzivora

Occasional pest. Borers into buds during seedling to panicle initiation causing swelling of infected parts. Tillers do not produce panicles. Serious attacks result in stunted growth and the production of more tillers which do not produce

Plant resistant and early maturing varieties.Remove rotten crop before land preparation.Embark on early and synchronized planting.Seed dress with suitable pesticide.


panicles.Stalk-eyed shoot fly,Diapsis spp.

Occasional pests. Maggots feed on the stem tissues below the growing zone. Central whorl does not unfold and dries up, resulting in “dead hearts”. Excessive tillering possibly apply a fast acting chemical soon as flying

In general do not apply any insecticide in the valleys, where natural enemies can build up.Where good weed management is practiced, scatter or heap cleared weeds to provide cover for increased natural enemy activity.Use moderate amounts of fertilizer, split doses over the main growth stages to discourage rapid development ad multiplication of flies.Avoid panicle harvesting (leaving tall stems and destroy stubbles to get rid of diapause larvae.Water management: keep bases of stems always under water.

Leaf and stem suckers: Green leafhopper Nephotettix spp., White leaf hopper, Cofana spp., Spittle bugs, Locris spp.

Occasional pests. Both nymphs and adults suck plant sap. High populations cause wilting and drying resulting in “hopper burn”.

Practice good cultural and agronomic practices, i.e. early planting, using early maturing varieties.Keep farm weed free.Judicious use of fertilizers, especially nitrogen, keeps populations of plant suckers low.

Rice bugs,Stenocoris spp.Mirperus spp.Aspavia spp.Riptortus spp.Nezara spp.

Occasional pests. The bugs invade rice fields during flowering stage and lay eggs on leaves. Both adults and nymphs suck developing grains during milk and dough stages. Adults live long and are very mobile.

Grassy weeds should be eliminated from the farm and surrounding areas and staggered planting should be avoided.Encourage predatory assassin bugs by creating refugia, i.e. good weed management with scattering or heaping cleared weeds to provide cover for increased natural enemy activity.

Rice beetle,Lagria villosa

Chew growing tips and flowers. Minor pest.

Chemical control not necessary.

Hispid beetles,Trichispa spp.

Occasional, but then destructive pest. Attack rice panicles and eat the grains. Suspected to be vector for Rice Yellow Mottle Virus (RYMV).

Use close spacing.Keep bunds and surroundings free of grass weeds. Destroy stubbles and avoid rotting.Top the tips of leaves of seedlings before transplanting to destroy egg masses.


Ensure balance nutrition (avoid excessive nitrogen application)

SOURCE: Handbook of Crop Protection Recommendations in Ghana: An IPM Approach vol 1. Cereals and Pulses (2002)

Soya – Alternative pest and disease control methods for Soybeans in Ghana are captured in Table 2- 6 below.

Table 2- 6: Available pest management options for soybeans in GhanaSOYBEANS (Glycine max = soy)Pest Name Symptom or Damage Cultural Practices and Direct

InterventionsSeed decay, Damping off,Pythium sp.Corticium = Rhizoctonia solani

Occasional diseases. Poor germination. Poor stand. Seeds rot in soil. Symptoms appear on hypocotyls as reddish collar region at which point seedling topples (Corticium sp.). Pythium infects the whole hypocotyls giving it a grey-green wet appearance leading to watery collapse.

Use healthy seeds. Treat seeds with appropriate

fungicides as seed treatment and PCNB drench in limited areas (spot treatment.

Sclerotium blight Sclerotium rolfsii

Occasional disease. Infection occurs at or just below the soil surface, causing light-brown lesions, which quickly darken and enlarge until the hypocotyls or stem is girdled. Plant then wilts. Mycelium forms around the stem bases, leaf debris and the soil around infected plants. Numerous tan to brown sclerotia form in the mycelium, on soil surface, in plan material.

Alternate soybean with non-host crop e.g. maize (rotation).

Clean fallow for up to two years to reduce inoculums.

Bury crop residue 15-25 cm deep to reduce inoculums and delay disease.

Plant resistant or tolerant cultivars.

Wilts, Fusarium rot, light or Root rot Fusarium oxysporum f. sp tracheiphilum

Minor diseases. Characteristic are browning or blackening of vascular system in roots and stems. Seedlings emergence is slow and poor, affected seedlings are slanted and weak later sudden wilting/death occur. Older plants are stunted, leaves yellow and fall, the plant gradually dies. Pod infection may result in seed transmission of the pathogen.

Pathogen is soil-borne and seed transmitted.

Don’t use seeds from infested crops. Grow cultivars resistant to Fusarium and soybean cyst nematode and root knot nematodes.

Plant high quality seeds in warm well drained soils.

Delay cultivation until soil moisture is low.

In fields with a history of the disease, ridge soil around plant


SOYBEANS (Glycine max = soy)Pest Name Symptom or Damage Cultural Practices and Direct

Interventionsbases to promote development of adventitious rots from stem base.

Practice long term rotation with non-host crops (e.g. cereals, cassava).

Web blight Rhizoctonia solani

Occasional disease, potentially serious. Symptoms appear on leaves, stems, and pods. Infected leaves are water soaked, and then become greenish-brown. Old lesions fall off in dry weather, creating a ragged shot-hole effect. Total defoliation with severe infections.

Use resistant varieties where available.

Treat seeds with appropriate fungicide to limit early season disease development.

Apply a foliar fungicide at first sight of the disease.

Leaf rustUromyces sp.

Minor disease. Open pustules with rusty masses of spores on leaf blades.

No direct control is required. Use resistant varieties, where

available.Anthracnose Colletotrichum truncatum C, glycines

Major disease. All stages can be affected. In early stages it appears on stems, pods and petioles as irregularly shaped brown areas. Later, infected tissues are covered with black fruiting bodies. Necrosis occurs on foliage and laminar veins after pro-longed periods of high humidity. Leaf rolling, petiole canker-ring and premature defoliation occur. Early pod infection results in pod blackening, no seed or fewer shriveled seeds. Mycelia mat fill pod cavity and seeds become moldy.

Sow seeds free of the pathogen. Treat infected seed with

recommended fungicide. Plough crop residue under, burn

or feed trash to livestock. Rotate soybean with non-host

crops (e.g. cereals, rot and tubers, vegetables).

Spray with appropriate fungicide when conditions favoring infection occurs between bloom and pod-fill (humidity). Use fungicides on foliage when disease symptoms appear.

Cotton AphidAphis gossypii

Major pest. Small, soft insects, found in clusters (colonies) around stems, young shoots and pods and underside of leaves.

Observe build-up of aphid populations and of natural enemies (predators like lady bird beetles, hover flies, lacewings, parasitic wasps like Aphidius spp.)

Use recommended pesticides and/or Neem seed or leaf


SOYBEANS (Glycine max = soy)Pest Name Symptom or Damage Cultural Practices and Direct

Interventionsextracts.

Sucking bugsAnoplocnemis curvipes,Clavigralla tomentosicolis,C. shadabi,Riptortus dentipes,Mirperus jacundus,Aspavia sp.Nezara viridula

Major pests. Such the contents of pods and soft growing parts. Inject poison into pods/seeds causing necrosis.

Control weeds to destroy roosting sites.

Limited control occurs in nature by Trissolus basalis a biological control agent as well as assassin bugs (Reduviids).

Scout and at the rate of 2 bugs/ meter row and spray with Organophosphate or other recommended pesticides.

Storage mothsEphestia cantella,Corcyra cephabonica

Larvae feed on grains causing extensive webbing of grains

Solar disinfection, thorough drying of harvested produce.

Do triple bagging using plastic sacks.

Divide crop into a batch for short term storage (< 3 months), and long term storage (> 3 months). Treat only long term storage batch.

Store small quantities with wood ash, ground nut oil, neem oil, black pepper powder etc.

Apply neem oil (2-5ml/kg seeds). Apply appropriate storage

pesticide for long term storage batch.

SOURCE: Handbook of Crop Protection Recommendations in Ghana: An IPM Approach vol 1. Cereals and Pulses (2002)


2.5 Acute and long-term toxicological hazards associated with the proposed use, and measures available to minimize such hazards

The World Health Organization (WHO) has reported in 2012 that of the 20,000 fatalities that occur every year from pesticide poisoning, about 80% of these deaths occur in Africa. Even more alarming is the growing dependency on pesticides by African small holder farmers despite very weak country regulatory capacity for pesticides amidst rising costs. The Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO) through its International Code of conduct on the distribution and use of pesticides also recognized the potential and actual harm that can occur as a result of reliance on pesticides. ADVANCE recognizes the serious risks associated with pesticide use to both human health and the environment. Pesticides are poisons, and nearly all of them present acute and/or long-term toxicological hazards, especially if they are used incorrectly.

Table 1-2 contains information on acute and chronic human and environmental toxicological risks for every pesticide Active Ingredient (AI) recommended in this PERSUAP. In the analysis of AIs for acute and chronic toxicological hazards care was also taken to ensure that banned and highly regulated pesticides as listed by the Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs)1 and Prior Informed Consent (PIC)2 Treaties are avoided.

2.6 Proposed methods of application, including availability of appropriate application and safety equipment

Pesticides enter the body through the nose and mouth as vapors, through the skin and eyes by leaky sprayers, mixing splashing and spray drift, and mouth by accidental splashing or ingestion on food or cigarettes. Most pesticides are applied on smaller farms, by hand-pumped backpack sprayers. In general, PPEs are available and used on larger farms. However, it is not generally used on smaller farms.

Issue: Leaky back-pack sprayersHand-pump backpack sprayers can and do eventually develop leaks at the junctions (filler cap, pump handle entry, exit hose attachment, lance attachment to the hose and at the lance handle). These leaks come into contact with exposed skin.

RecommendationsThe project will support sprayer service providers (SSPs) under its small grants scheme to procure competent spray equipment that meet standards recommended by the Ghana EPA.Trainings organized for SSPs will include the training curriculum a session for spray equipment maintenance and servicing. Similar training and support will be provided for FBOs

Issue: Pesticide granules and treated seed applied by handIn general, very toxic soil pesticides like carbofuran are formulated as Granules in order to make them safer by lessening the risk of inhalation from spraying, and hold the pesticide near the soil. Also, most seed promoted by the project on demonstration sites may be treated with a chemical. If farmers do not use gloves when applying these, as they most

1 http://www.pops.int2 http://www.pic.int


http://www.pic.int/

http://www.pops.int/

often do not, they compromise the safety factor. Gloves should be used for these applications.

RecommendationsAgric Production Officers and other field officers leading demonstrations will ensure that all persons handling granular or powdered pesticides, and treated seed wear appropriate gloves.

To ensure sustainability, field officers will also teach farmers how to improvise hand gloves using plastic bags and empty water sachets. These materials are very common and in many cases have become environmental pollutants. Improvising them into hand gloves will therefore serve a dual purpose.

Issue: Many applicators do not use PPEsThe reasons farmers provided for not using PPEs to reduce pesticide exposure risks include:

Cost: PPEs are generally available on the market and it is common to find farmers using nose masks, and a few others using gloves. Most farmers are however unable to buy carbon cartridge respirators, overalls and knee boots because they are too expensive.

Most farmers either do not have an appreciable appreciation of the potential health risks of pesticides or they not associate human disease conditions with the use of pesticides.

Most smallholder farmers are not literate, and may not understand either the warning labels or pictograms provided on the pesticide labels.

Ghana is generally warm, and northern Ghana is even warmer. It can be uncomfortable to have all parts of your body covered for extended periods, even as spraying is recommended for early hours of the day or late in the evening.

RecommendationsWumbei (2013)3 studied safety of pesticide applicators on cotton farms in northern Ghana and concluded among others, that safety can be improved by switching from a spraying method where spray nozzles are held in front of the applicator to a method where the nozzles are held behind the applicator. The latter method is known to have little operator contamination since at the time the solution is sprayed the applicator is no longer in direct contact with the plants.

Training should include advice on minimizing discomfort from wearing PPE, like spraying in early morning before it becomes hot, or late in the afternoon.

CropLife International, in its training manual for training housewives, provides very easy ways of making alternative PPEs using plastic bags to make aprons and plastic bottles to make face shields. These improvised equipment are not perfect but surely minimize the risk of pesticide exposure substantially. They also help in promoting the culture of wearing PPEs

3 Abubakri Wumbei, 2013. Risk Assessment of Applicator Exposure to Pesticides on Cotton Farms in Ghana. Journal of Environment and Earth Science, ISSN 2224-3216 (Paper) ISSN 2225-0948 (Online) Vol. 3, No.1, 2013


among farmers. The project will adopt such methods to increase the number of people using protection against pesticide exposures.

Having personal protective equipment is one part of the solution and using them properly is another part. The project will continue to provide training to SSPs and FBOs on proper use of PPEs in collaboration with the Ghana EPA and MOFA-PPRSD.

2.7 Compatibility of the Proposed Pesticides with target and non-target ecosystems

As part of the requirements of registration process by Ghana EPA, all pesticides approved for used in Ghana are screened to ensure that they have no or minimal effects on non-target organisms. The project will however take additional steps to further minimize possible effects on non-target organisms.

Water runoff associated with heavy rainfall can transport pesticides and their metabolites to distant places located downstream, resulting in the contamination of surface and ground water as outlined in the Eco toxicity section in table 2- 1. All project implementation sites are strictly for agricultural purposes, however the project will continue to take precautions to avoid drift to non-target areas and organisms by observing the use of appropriate equipment and application rates. This will minimize the adverse effects on target organisms and ecosystems.

Field officers will also support farmers in observing the right buffer zones for farms located near waterways and conservation areas to ensure that pesticides do not contaminate ponds, waterways or ditches.

The effect of each pesticide on non-target ecosystems will also depend on how long it stays in the environment, or rather its rate of break-down, or half-life. Half-life is defined as the time (in days, weeks or years) required for half of the pesticide present after an application to break down into degradation products. The rate of pesticide breakdown depends on a variety of factors including temperature, soil pH, soil microbe content and whether or not the pesticide is exposed to light, water, and oxygen.

Many pesticides breakdown into products that are themselves toxic and each may also have a significant half-life. The pesticides recommended in this report took into consideration the half-life of the chemical products and their mobility in the environment they will be used in.

2.8 Conditions under which the pesticide is to be used, including climate, flora, fauna, geography, hydrology and soils

The ADVANCE II project’s implementation area is above the 8th parallel. GAMSAP activities however extend below the 8th parallel but only for the production of DuPont maize hybrid.The area above parallel 8 is largely savanna. The dominant vegetation type is savanna woodland with a grass layer that can reach up to 2m in height. Smaller communities such as swamps, flood-plain grasslands, narrow bands of riverine forests and or low open grasslands growing in shallow soils and iron pans also exist.


Annual rainfall is about 1000 – 1100mm, occurring from April to October. This is followed by a prolonged dry season from November to March, characterized by the harmattan winds, when a steady desiccating wind blows from the North-East. There are wide temperature variations in the dry season. Minimum night temperatures occur below 20oC while maximum day temperatures reach 40oC.

Annual bushfires occur between December and February with significant areas affected. The only areas spared are waterlogged vegetation and vegetation in wet valleys, and some micro areas along escarpments.

Most crops are grown either during the rainy season or under irrigation, the possibility of using chemicals at seasons when crops are under stress is not very likely (Afreh-Nuamah & Youdeowei, 2002). However crops grown in valley bottoms may suffer water stress during dry spells due to accumulation of course materials with poor water holding abilities. In the 2014 crop season the project observed that rice grown on land with reduced tillage survived dry spells much better than those that were grown on tilled grounds. The project will, from 2015, promote reduced tillage and the use of cover crops using 30 demo plots. This will, among other benefits, reduce water stress on crops during dry spells.

2.9 Availability of other products and non-chemical methods

Non-chemical options for pest management are recommended in Tables 2- 3 to 2- 6 of this PERSUAP. ADVANCE II field officers will emphasize non-chemical use of pest management as a first option to beneficiary farmers as necessary.

A greater majority of chemicals used on ADVANCE II demonstration plots are glyphosates and a few other herbicides. Alternative methods of weed control are therefore the major non-chemical consideration at field level. The use of cover crops as part of the projects climate smart agriculture approach will help reduce the buildup of weeds as biomass accumulated from cover crop could be dense enough to suppress weed growth.

2.10 Ghana’s ability to regulate or control the distribution storage, use and disposal of the recommended pesticides

The objective of regulating pesticides is to protect society from the adverse effects of pesticides without denying access to the benefits of their use. In 1965 the PPRSD was established under the Prevention and Control of Pests and Diseases of Plants Act (Act 307) now replaced by the Plants and Fertilizer Act, 2010 (Act 803). The PPRSD is the National Institution with the mandate and capacity to organize, regulate, implement and coordinate the plant protection services needed for the country in support of sustainable growth and development of Agriculture.

The Pesticide and Fertilizer Regulatory Division (PFRD) of the PPRSD supervises and trains regulatory inspectors, publishes information materials, registers and trains pesticide and fertilizer dealers and applicators. It keeps records as well as statistics of pesticides and fertilizers, manages pesticides and fertilizer stocks in the country, supervises bio-efficacy trials on pesticides and fertilizers carried out by research institutions and facilitate the removal of obsolete and unwanted chemicals (pesticides and fertilizers).


Part II of the Environmental Protection Agency Act, 1994 (Act 490) provides the EPA the legal authority for the registration of pesticides, licensing of pesticides dealers, enforcement and penalties for failure to comply with the provisions of the law as well as a variety of general provisions. To enforce this law, a number of regulations and guidelines have been passed to guide prospective pesticide dealers in all aspects of pesticide management including registration of pesticides and licensing of pesticide dealers. The EPA has offices in all Regional capitals, and has recently taken steps to post officers to every district capital to improve pesticide inspection.

The work of EPA is supported by a National Pesticides Technical Committee and the Pesticide Management Division of PPRSD. Quality control and residue analysis laboratories have been established at the Ghana Standards Board, and the Cocoa Research Institute of Ghana (CRIG).

IssuesDespite these general regulatory measures to ensure legal authority for the registration, licensing, distribution and use of pesticides, there are still serious weaknesses in the capabilities of the regulatory systems and agencies assigned responsibilities for regulating pesticides distribution and use in Ghana, primarily due to financial and logistic constraints. EPA does not have the full complement of 200 pesticides inspectors required for effective work at post. This makes it difficult for efficient supervision of the input dealers. Eleven pesticide shops visited as part of the process of developing this PERSUAP all reported that EPA officials have visited them within one week before our visit. However a few expired products and products marked “NOT FOR SALE” were seen in some of the shops. This could be due to the fact that pesticides inspectors have to visit many shops at a time and therefore are not able to thoroughly conduct inspection.

In addition, due to limited number of MoFA extension staff with adequate knowledge in pesticides use and management, input dealers have become the main source of information on pesticides use and application to farmers. Though the EPA and other projects including ADVANCE II conduct training for pesticide dealers there are many instances where the persons who turn up for the training is not the one who operates the pesticide shop on a daily basis.

Improper container disposal is probably the biggest challenge in the pesticide management effort in Ghana. It is common to find empty pesticide containers left on farms, and in villages containers are washed and used for other purposes such as storage of kitchen items, serving pito (local drink), and performance of ablution by Muslims. This is a very dangerous trend that needs urgent attention.

RecommendationsOutgrower Businesses and input have a great deal of influence over farmers. Each OB should be organized to provide a central point for their outgrowers to return empty pesticide containers after use. These can then be disposed of collectively in a safe manner with the supervision of specialists from the Gh EPA. Similar arrangements should be made with input dealers.


The project should develop a radio jingle in various local languages targeting farmers and housewives to bring the message of the dangers of re-using pesticide containers much closer to families in remote villages and the need for proper disposal of containers.

GAP trainings at demo plots should include safe pesticide handling at all times as recommended in the project EMMP.

2.11 Provisions for training of users and applicators

It is important that anyone who uses a pesticide product should not use that pesticide or give instruction to others on its use unless they have received adequate instruction, training and guidance in its correct use. In northern Ghana, many farmers are not literate. They are not likely to understand the pesticide labels on their own without any form of training. Even in situations when some training is provided it may take a while for farmers to appreciate the importance of adhering to the label advice on pesticide containers. The need for intensive and repeated training is therefore important for farmers and pesticide dealers. A standardized training program for pesticide applicators has been elaborated in Annex 1 of this PERSUAP.

2.12 Monitoring use and effectiveness of pesticides

Successful monitoring ensures that pesticides are used only when really needed and that the wrong kind of pesticide is never used. Evaluating the risks, impacts and benefits of pesticide use should be an ongoing, dynamic process. Pest resistance is one of the risks for which monitoring is intended, as well as human health and safety and environmental effects. ADVANCE field officers are on the field at least 4 days in a week. Pesticide use monitoring will be done as part of all other activities that are monitored on demo plots. Annex 4 provides a monitoring tool for documenting all activities on demo plots relating to pesticide use while Annex 1 outlines details for safer use measures.


PART 3: SAFER USE ACTION PLAN

The challenges revealed in Part II of this report are not very different from those the ADVANCE approved PERSUAP 2012 worked to address in the past 4 years. Significant progress was made in addressing these challenges under specific actions (See Annex 5). The Safer Use Actions proposed in this PERSUAP are based on a combination of the challenges identified in the Pesticide Evaluation Report and shortcomings in the implementation of the ADVANCE approved PERSUAP 2012The ADVANCE II Pesticide management efforts are 3 fold; (i)To ensure compliance with Title 22 of the Code of Federal Regulations section 216, (ii) promote safe use of agrochemicals and (iii) Prevent environmental pollution as a result of improper pesticide applications and disposal. The recommendations here for the Safer Use Action Plan are in line with these objectives.

The program seeks to achieve the main objectives by implementing programs that reduce the reliance on agrochemicals through an Integrated Pesticide Management (IPM) approach to program implementation, when the use of pesticides is unavoidable, the program advocates for the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) that is appropriate for the specific agrochemical being promoted. The program also takes precautions to prevent the re-use of empty pesticide containers by promoting safe disposal methods such as destruction and burial of used containers. Women and children are strictly prohibited from pesticide applications supported by the ADVANCE program. The program will also ensure that highly toxic and banned pesticides are not promoted by the ADVANCE program. The program will also incorporate safe use training in any pesticide promotion activities as follows:

A. Pesticide Risk Awareness and MitigationFarmers do not normally select crop varieties on the basis of pesticide need but more on expected economic returns. However, in order to minimize the potential losses from pests and diseases, a useful starting point is to obtain appropriate planting materials of crop varieties that have been proven, through local field trials, to demonstrate acceptable levels of resistance or tolerance to major pests and diseases. These may be obtained by working in collaboration with SARI, CRI, and local Universities.

Small holder farmers do not view investments in personal protective equipment (PPEs) as an economically useful venture. Farmers are aware of the potential hazards when spraying pesticides but are not fully appreciative of the need to be protected. The project has been working to support the set of commercial SSPs that are linked to either input dealers or NFs. This way, outgrowers who are associated to an NF can access the services of SSPs from a centralized and coordinated point at a fee that does not match with the initial investment of PPEs. This approach has the advantage of reducing the number of inexperienced and casual users exposed to pesticides. In addition, this market-driven approach does not only help ensure effective and efficient application and safe handling, but provides a medium for the dealers to promote their products and gain respect of customers under the premise that judicious application of pesticides will maximize crop yields and can convince farmers of the need to continue purchasing the product.


Preventing re-use of pesticide containers is still a big challenge among farmers and their families. Empty pesticide containers are used to store water, salt, pito and many other activities in local villages. A regular program of public awareness, education and training of all categories of farm workers on the risks associated with reuse of pesticide containers is needed. These should include radio jingles and training topics during GAPs dissemination and field day trainings.

Women, especially pregnant and nursing mothers, as well as children represent a highly vulnerable group for pesticides poisoning. Experience Zimbabwe4 and India5 shows that high levels of pesticides residues can be found in human breast milk where pesticides management has been very poor. In line with the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, the project will as much as possible discourage women from pesticide applications and rather seek the services of SSPs.

B. Prevent Environmental PollutionThe Ghana EPA recommends that empty pesticide containers are punctured/destroyed and buried. Burning is not recommended. There have been programs that encouraged farmers to return empty containers to a central point for collection and re-use, but these have suffered the challenges of sustainability. Proper disposal of pesticide containers therefore continues to be a big challenge among small-holder famers in northern Ghana. It is easier to have trained SSPs do proper disposal than individual farmers. Therefore the project will promote proper disposal of containers through the promotion and strengthening of SSPs through regular training.Water bodies in Ghana, including the large Lake Volta, have been found to be contaminated with multiple pesticides such as DDT and lindane. This has a secondary contamination effect on lake sediments and freshwater fish.

Contamination in food produce includes, for example, lettuce in Kumasi in which levels of DDT have been recorded at 400 micrograms per kilogram (or 400 parts per billion). Fianko et al (2011)6, Darko and Acquaah (2008)7 and Laary (2012)8 all report pesticide contamination in multiple areas of the food chain and natural environment. Water samples from rivers in the intensive cocoa growing areas in the Ashanti and Eastern Regions of Ghana have been found to contain lindane and endosulfan. Water samples from Akumadan, a vegetable farming community in the Ashanti Region and different areas of Ghana revealed the presence of significant levels of pesticide residues (Fianko et al, 2011). The possible reasons for pesticides to reach these aquatic environments are through direct runoff, leaching, careless disposal of empty containers, equipment washing, and use of toxic products. In the Upper East Region of Ghana, a 2012 report by NPASP9 stated that 15 4 http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17905535 http://www.nrdc.org/breastmilk/hch.asp6 Fianko, J.R., Donker, A., Lowor, S.T., and Yeboah, P.O. (2011) Agrochemicals and the Ghanaian Environment, a Review, Journal of Environmental Protection, 2, 221-2307 Darko, G., and Acquaah, S.O. (2008) Levels of organochlorine pesticides residues in dairy products in Kumasi, Ghana, Chemosphere, 71(2), 294-2988 Laary, J.K. (2012) Dry-Season Farming and Agrochemical Misuse in Upper East Region of Ghana: Implication and Way Forward, Journal of Agricultural, Food, and Environmental Sciences, 5(1)9 NPASP (Northern Presbyterian Agricultural Service and Partners) (2012) Ghana’s Pesticide Crisis: A Need for Further Government Action [Available online]http://www.christianaid.org.uk/images/ghanas-


http://www.christianaid.org.uk/images/ghanas-pesticide-crisis.pdf


farmers died from suspected pesticide poisoning in 2010. A quarter of farmers surveyed had recently suffered health problems from inhaling pesticides because no protective clothing or masks are used when spraying (NPASP, 2012). Farmers using agro-chemicals are most at risk of poisoning and contamination, but because these chemicals are also making their way into the environment and food produce, the general public is also at risk. Every precaution would be taken to minimize spraying near standing water bodies or streams, and wells. In particular, spray operators would be trained on the risks associated with (a) pouring excess pesticide mixtures in rivers, streams or ponds, (b) washing pesticide application equipment in rivers, streams, ponds and other water bodies and (c) discarding empty pesticide containers in rivers, streams and ponds.

A basic principle of IPM is judicious use of pesticides. This means that chemical pesticides will be used only as a last resort, for example, in the case of unexpected pest invasion by migratory pests such as armyworms and grasshoppers or grain eating birds. Pesticides would also only be used when it is economic to do so, on a needs basis, after detailed field surveys and assessment of the extent of the pest distribution schedule to prevent pest incidence and damage

C. Ensure compliance with Regulation 216It is important to ensure that beneficiary farmers do not use locally-available pesticides containing banned substances and unregistered products. All field staff will be trained on how to apply this PERSUAP to their work. All trainings for SSPs and other project beneficiaries will include the following general topics:

Pests and diseases of maize, soybean and rice

Types of Pesticides and Pesticide formulations

Steps in selecting appropriate pesticides for specific pests and diseases

Safety for spray service providers and non-target environments in pesticide application

Residual effects of pesticides on food stuffs and non-target organisms

GHANA EPA regulations on pesticides

Safe use of agrochemicals was widely covered in the training curriculum.

Appropriate use and maintenance of spraying equipment (Knapsack)

Proper measurements and mixing of pesticides

Transportation and storage of pesticides

Identification of counterfeit and banned chemicals

Refer to Annex 1 for a more detailed training program for SSPs.

Table 3- 1: Actions by Objectives/Issues Identified in PERSUAP

Objective Issues Interventions required Outputs

pesticide-crisis.pdf [14-2-2014]




A. PESTICIDE RISK AWARENESSA1. Reduce reliance

on pesticides. Local pest control

options are limited. Pesticides are costly

and may not be used safely.



varieties

Reduced incidence of diseases and pests.

More farmers adopt IPM.

A2. Promote use of PPEs





Increased use of PPEs by farmers

A3. Discourage re-use of pesticide containers





Reduced number of people using pesticide containers

A4. Discourage women and children from pesticide application

Limited farm labor compelling women to apply pesticides.



Reduced cases of women applying pesticides

B. PREVENT ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTIONB1. Promote safe

disposal of pesticide containers





Reduced incidence empty containers littered on farms.

B2. Minimize ground and surface water contamination.

Pesticide use near water bodies.

Pesticide use on wet fields with flowing water.

Pesticide use immediately after rainfall.

Reduce soil disturbance such as reduced tillage.


Farmers adopt conservation farming methods.

B3. Minimize potential for using pesticides more

Farmers may apply pesticides, especially for storage grain, without

Promote GAPs and IPM to reduce over reliance on

More farmers able to interpret


than necessary. actually encountering the threat of a pest invasion leading sometimes to avoidable high cost of agrochemicals and over application of pesticides.

pesticides.

pesticide labels

C. ACTIONS TO ENSURE COMPLIANCEC1.Conduct safe

pesticide use training



Training contents developed






Training programs for SSPs conducted




Train farmers to read and understand the symbols and colors on pesticide labels.


Farmers adopt IPM approaches

Table 3- 2: Implementation of the SUAP actions

Activity By whom When6. Training of staff on application of

the PERSUAP.Environmental Specialist

April – May 2016

7. Detailed training on aspects of the PERSUAP to enable ADVANCE field staff to have a better understanding of the PERSUAP contents and application in the field.

Environmental Specialist

Annually

8. Training of farmers on topics identified in the PERSUAP

APOs and RCs Field days at demonstration sites

9. Training SSPs RCs, EPA and MOFA-PPRSD

Continuous


10. Pesticide use monitoring Environmental Specialist and APOs

Production season


ANNEXES

Annex 1: Guidelines for training on safe pesticide use

1. DEFINITIONS

Pesticides are substances or organisms used to kill, incapacitate, inhibit the growth of, or repel, pests. They can be natural or synthetic chemicals. Some living organisms that act as biological control agents can also be regarded as pesticides.

Common environmental pests include animal pests (e.g. rabbits), insect pests (e.g. locusts and millipedes), and plant pests (weeds). Many weeds, pests, and diseases affect primary production.

Spray Service Providers have access to a wide range of pesticides, including baits, insecticides, herbicides, fungicides, bactericides, post-harvest storage insecticides and fungicides and seed dressers. When used appropriately, pesticides can control environmental pests efficiently and be of significant economic benefit to primary production. However, if they are misused, pesticides can put human health, trade and the environment at risk.

A herbicide is a chemical substance used to kill or otherwise manage certain species of plants considered to be pests. Plant pests, or weeds, compete with desired crop plants for light, water, nutrients, and space.

An insecticide is a chemical substance designed to kill insects.

A fungicide is a chemical substance designed to kill fungi.

Spray drift is the airborne movement of agricultural chemicals away from the target area during, or shortly after, its application.

An ecosystem is a self-sustaining association of plants and animals and the physical environment in which they live.

LegislationWhen dealing with pesticides, spray service providers must comply with the common law duty of care and the following general legislative provisions that apply for the storage, transport, application and disposal of pesticides.

General environmental dutyTo minimize the potential for environmental and human harm, pesticide use by SSPs and other operators whose business involves the use of pesticides must be consistent with provisions in Part II of the EPA act 1994 (Act490)

Section 44 of the Act Safeguards for use of pesticides reads:

(1) A person shall not use or require an employee to use a pesticide in a manner that is inconsistent with this Act or the Regulations.


(2) A person concerned with the use of a pesticide shall inform any other person who uses a pesticide of the dangers involved in the misuse of pesticides.

(3) Where the Regulations require that a pesticide shall be applied by or under the supervision of a person authorized in that behalf by the Agency, a person shall not apply that pesticide unless authorized or supervised.

(4) A person shall not require or permit an employee to handle or use a pesticide in the course of employment without providing and requiring the employee to use the protective facilities and clothing which will permit safe handling of the pesticide.

(5) Where protective facilities and clothing are required as a condition for a license, an employer whose employees use or handle pesticides to which the license relates shall provide and require the use of the facilities and clothing.

(6) A person shall not harvest or offer for sale a foodstuff on which pesticides have been used except in compliance with the prescribed practices including the interval between the application of pesticides and the harvest.

The EPA considers that allowing pesticides to enter surface or ground water, escape from a property, cause harm to the environment, or cause harm to other people would be a breach of the Act.

Other relevant legislationPesticides must also be used in accordance with the general duties under the:(a) Pesticide Control and Management Act, 1996 (Act 528)(b) Water Resources Commission Act, 1996, (Act 522)(c) Public Health Act, 2012 (Act 851)

2. SAFETY FIRST

Occupational Health & Safety

Health and safety directions on pesticide labels must be read, understood and followed by operators.

The EPA Act requires employers to provide information, instruction, training and supervision to employees when performing any hazardous activity, including storing, handling and using pesticides.

Health and safety directions on pesticide labels must be read, understood and followed by operators. SSPs must procure appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) and ensure they are properly used.

Transporting pesticidesWhen transporting pesticides, care must be taken to protect the operator, other people and the environment.Containers of pesticide concentrate must be secure while in transit and during short-term storage at mixing sites. Security may be via a locked cage or cabinet on the tray of the spray vehicle.

Safe transport advice: When purchasing pesticide ensure the container is in good condition and not leaking.


Purchase only the amount of pesticide you need as this reduces the amount being transported and the subsequent risk associated with storage.

Always check product labels to ensure they are present and intact. Ensure your risk of spill is minimized by transporting the pesticide on a bonded tray,

inside another container, or in a strong plastic bag with the opening closed securely. Carry personal protective equipment (PPE) with you, including gloves so you will be

prepared to deal with a spill in transit. Do not carry contaminated PPE with you. Store PPE in a manner that prevents contamination from pesticides.

Carry a spare plastic bag or absorbent material, such as sawdust with you to help contain any spill.

When working near water bodies, plan to transport mixed (diluted) pesticide rather than concentrates.

If the spray tank contains dilute pesticide while the spray vehicle is travelling on public roads, display the pesticide name on the outside of the spray tank.

Storing pesticidesPesticides should be locked in either an isolated, stand-alone building; a partitioned section of a multipurpose, uninhabited building; or, a cupboard within a multipurpose building. They should be stored in a cool area, away from sunlight.

In addition: Keep pesticides in a bonded area, so that leaks and spills cannot contaminate

surrounding areas. Store pesticides in original containers only, making sure labels are protected and

readable. If some pesticide is decanted into a smaller container for ease of transport and handling you must ensure that:- the new container is made of a suitable material to hold the pesticide safely,

preferably the same material as the original container.- the new container must be labelled with the name of the product and the active

ingredient(s).- warning statements on the original label are also written on the new container.

Keep PPE near the storage facility so that it can be accessed easily for use in the event of a spill or accident, but not in the same airspace as the pesticides.

Keep a spill kit and absorbent material close to the pesticide storage location. Write the date of purchase of the pesticide on the container, and use older product first. Do not store products after their expiry date. Where no expiry date is specified it is a

general rule that pesticides should be disposed of after two years. Do not store volatile or reactive products together. Store pesticides away from water bodies and areas subject to flooding.

Personal protective equipmentPersonal protective equipment (PPE) is designed to safeguard against both acute and chronic pesticide poisoning and generally includes products that prevent absorption of pesticide through the skin, eyes or through inhalation.

Personal protective equipment commonly recommended for use when applying pesticides includes: goggles/face shield to protect the eyes chemical resistant gloves to protect hands overalls to protect legs, arms, torso and groin respirator with correct filter cartridges to prevent inhalation of pesticide in gas, mist or

droplet form rubber or PVC boots to protect feet washable or chemical-resistant hat to protect head and scalp


PVC apron for use during mixing.

When using pesticide products, the requirements for PPE on the product label are your main source of information. Guidance on what PPE to wear for each application situation can be obtained from product labels.

Mixing pesticidesPesticides should be measured and mixed in areas that are well-ventilated, level, well-lit, and with a supply of clean water.Operators should wear appropriate personal protective equipment while mixing pesticides, and follow all instructions on the pesticide label.

Safe mixing advice: Always read and make sure you understand label instructions for mixing before opening

pesticide containers. Use recommended PPE when mixing pesticides (see label or MSDS). Use appropriate utensils when transferring pesticides between containers and

application equipment. Containers should measure volumes of concentrate accurately and allow the transfer of pesticides without spilling.

Measure and mix pesticides on a stable surface and at a comfortable height. Mix in an area with an impervious floor which allows for spills to be cleaned up, not in an

area where a spill could run into storm water drain or water body. Mix in a well-ventilated and well-lit area. Use clean water for mixing—poor quality water can reduce pesticide performance. Do not work alone if the pesticide is highly toxic. Do not combine products unless label instructions state it is appropriate to do so. Only prepare the volume of mix needed to complete the task. This avoids having to store

or dispose of unused portions.

When handling concentrated pesticides, as opposed to diluted mixes, both operators and the environment may be more at risk.

Accidents and emergency situationsPreparation is the best defense against emergencies. Operators should always know in advance what to do in emergency situations. Written emergency procedures should be available to all operators at all times.

PoisoningConsult the pesticide label and the MSDS for specific information on first aid. Never put yourself at an unreasonable risk to rescue others, as you may become the next victim. If there is any doubt about whether a person has been poisoned or not, seek medical attention.

Follow first aid steps for anyone who is poisoned or exposed to a pesticide.

These could include: removal of affected clothing immediately. washing of contaminated skin with soap and water.

If chemical is splashed in the eye, wash it immediately in running water for 15 minutes and seek medical attention immediately.

Leaks and spillsConsult the relevant MSDS or manufacturer of the pesticide for specific information on handling leaks and spills.


In the event of a chemical spill: ensure it is safe for you to approach the incident area move people to a safe distance from the incident area keep bystanders away from the spill contain the spilled material if possible, using absorbent material use absorbent material to soak up spilled liquid clean up the spill.

MSDS have information on clean-up and decontamination procedures. If in doubt, contact the EPA with the pesticide label for specialist advice.

Fire and pesticidesIn any fire involving pesticides, the first response is to ensure your own safety, then to raise the alarm, both to people in the vicinity and to the Ghana National Fire Service (Call 192). Next, evacuate people from downwind of the fire. Do not fight the fire yourself unless you are certain of your own safety. When the fire is extinguished, clean up as for leaks and spills.

If there is a risk of contaminating waterways, the water and foam used in firefighting should be contained.

3. BEFORE SPRAYING

Before applying pesticides, it is recommended that the spray operator conduct a thorough assessment of the job at hand. The completion of a risk assessment is not only a requirement under the law, but also good practice.

Risk assessment principlesA risk assessment needs to consider all aspects relating to: client’s expectations and the feasibility and practicability of the required job physical characteristics of the job site optimal pest control method, including alternatives to use of pesticide, with a

consideration of the risks/advantages of each alternative pesticide characteristics (physical, chemical and environmental) potential environmental effects resulting from spraying related human health issues.

The risk assessment process is illustrated in this flowchart:


Planning

ASKThe following questions could be asked of the client as part of any initial contact, and the answers collected prior to visual site inspection. Alternatively, they could be completed as part of the pre-job interview, by client and operator together. Not all questions will be applicable to all situations. What is the target pest? What is the approximate area of infestation (‘target area’)? Is control of the pest really necessary? Have you tried or considered methods of control other than pesticides? Are there considerations about the timing of pest control (e.g. around issues of dormancy

and life cycle of the target pest)? Are there issues with regard to protected or endangered species; bee hives; or livestock

in the treatment area? What is the nature of the target area to be treated? Is there suitable access to the site? What is the terrain like (slope of land, roughness of ground, obstacles such as stumps,

rocks and holes, cliffs and trees)? Is there a water supply at or near the target site? What are the land uses of adjoining properties (e.g. school, park, farm, etc.)? Have you consulted with neighbors about your proposed spray operation? Is there a preferred time of day for the operation (e.g. when neighbors are absent)?

CHECKThe following points can be used as a checklist for risk assessment. How can the site be accessed? What is the nature of the terrain, and potential hazards for equipment (e.g. slope of land,

roughness of ground, obstacles such as stumps, rocks and holes, cliffs and trees)? Is there potential for off-target migration (e.g. spray drift, subsurface seepage, overland

flow) onto sensitive:- adjoining property


PlanDo a pre-job risk assessment via client interview (ASK)Check information supplied by client (CHECK)Do a visual site inspection (LOOK)

ActSelect appropriate pesticide productPerform spray operation under the right conditions

Review

While applying the product, monitor the impact on the local environment and adjust procedures if needed

- crops- waterways- public lands (e.g. parks, gardens, roads)- other sensitive areas?

If so, how might this be minimized? What is the stage of the development of the pest? Is this the best timing for the application in relation to the life cycle of the pest (e.g. have

most weeds germinated, or have most insects hatched or emerged)? What is the best time of day to apply the pesticide, in relation to:

- minimizing off-target damage (i.e. which time of day is calmest) effect on neighbors? If the client has chosen a pesticide, is it suitable for the job? Does the client have a source of clean, accessible water for applying the pesticide and

cleaning equipment after application? Where can assistance be obtained in an emergency situation, such as accident or

illness?

LOOKA further risk assessment should be conducted immediately prior to applying the pesticide to the target. This is because circumstances may have changed since completion of the checklist above. Carry out a final visual inspection of the target area, using the following check list: Is access to the site adequate? Is the terrain suitable for the job? Has the target pest altered (e.g. different growth stage, different pest, pest no longer

present) since the client interview? Is the method of pest control still appropriate? Is the target area the same as when discussed with the client? Is the weather suitable to apply the product? Do you need to review any plan to minimize off-target migration of product? Have neighbors been made aware of the impending spray?

Choose the right pesticideChoosing the right pesticide should be based on the recommendations of this PERSUAP as listed in Tables 2 -1 and 2 -2.

Highly volatile pesticides such as formulations of 2,4-D should not be used near susceptible crops such as tomatoes.

In addition, insecticides that are highly toxic to fish should not be used near waterways or aquaculture farms. Soil-active herbicides such as atrazine can present a significant hazard to non-target vegetation.

IMPORTANT CONSIDERATIONS

Buffer zonesBuffer zones (separation distances) can be used on the downwind edge of a field to ensure spray drift does not impact on adjoining sensitive areas. Different types of buffer zones include the following:

a. Field splittingThis involves treating the upwind section of a field, leaving the required buffer distance to neighboring sensitive areas unsprayed (a ‘no-spray zone’), until there is a favorable change in wind direction. For example, when a southerly wind is blowing, a spray operator could spray the southern end of the field, and vice versa when a northerly wind is blowing. Downwind ‘no-spray zones’ may be prescribed on product labels.


b. Vegetative buffersRows of trees, shrubs or tall grasses can be planted on the downwind edge of a property to reduce the impact of spray drift on neighboring sensitive areas. Vegetative buffers work by filtering spray droplets out of the air as it passes through foliage. Vegetative buffers should only be considered in addition to other methods of drift control, not as a substitute.

Many factors influence the type and distance required for the buffer. Specialist advice may be useful at the design stage.

Principles of vegetative buffer design include:

Buffer width. The wider the buffer, the greater its effectiveness in reducing spray drift.

Buffer height. The buffer should be about twice the height of the spray release. The greater the density of the buffer, the higher a barrier needs to be in relation to the spray release height.

Buffer distance. The closer the buffer to the release point, the greater its effectiveness.

Type of buffer vegetation. Trees or bushes with small or hairy leaves tend to maximize droplet capture. Thin, rough foliage should extend from the base to the crown of the buffer trees.

Consider water bodiesBefore applying pesticides near a water body (e.g. drainage line, creek, stream, farm dam, lake or reservoir) it is important to consider environmental and seasonal conditions which increase the risk of harm to aquatic environments. Although herbicides are the most frequently used pesticides near a water body (to control weeds), there might be handling or application of other pesticides such as insecticides and fungicides.

Pesticides can enter water either directly through in-stream spraying or spray drift, or they can reach the surface water via surface run-off or leaching and sub-surface drainage. It is therefore important to understand that herbicides can move into waterways even as a result of off-stream activities.

When spraying weeds near water bodies, the choice of herbicide is critical. This is because many herbicides are toxic in aquatic ecosystems and may harm animal and plant life. They may also pollute water supplies intended for human consumption.

Only some herbicides are suitable for use near water bodies. Such herbicides need the following characteristics:

Low eco-toxicity.

Zero or low volatility at all temperatures (e.g. <10-6 mm Hg) (to reduce spray drift potential)

Low water solubility (e.g. <3 mg/L) (to reduce potential for leaching to groundwater)

High soil absorption coefficient (e.g. Koc>1900 cm3/g) (to reduce potential for leaching to groundwater)

Short half-life (in water <15 days; aerobic soil metabolism <610 days; anaerobic soil metabolism <9 days).


Herbicides applied to the edge of a water body or in wetted areas around its edge must be registered for use in aquatic environments by the EPA.

Spray operators and farmers should both consider whether a spray operation near water is really necessary, or whether integrated pest management (IPM) practices could be used. Landholders need to develop a long-term weed control program as part of sustainable management for areas close to water.

Consider off-target migrationSpray drift is the airborne movement of agricultural chemicals away from the target area during, or shortly after, its application. It can be in the form of droplets, particles (fine dust) or vapour and can occur to some degree even when the chemical is being applied according to label instructions. It becomes an issue when it has the potential to damage health, trade or the environment.

Spray drift is not the only process by which chemicals can potentially leave the target area. Chemical trespass is the broader term used to describe the off-target impact of a chemical on air, soil, groundwater and surface waters.

To ensure the impact of spray drift on sensitive areas is minimized, spraying should be carefully planned, especially for areas that are routinely sprayed. Planning should include a map of the awareness zone and information on methods of drift reduction and buffer zones.

Consider weather conditionsConsider weather conditions before spraying, paying particular attention to:

Wind speed. Consistently light winds are ideal (3–15 km/hr or as specified on label). Higher wind speeds may be acceptable in low risk areas, or where adequate distances to other areas are maintained.

Wind direction. The wind should be blowing away from sensitive areas.

Temperature. Mild temperatures (<27°C) and high humidity (>45%) are ideal.

The morning hours often give the best weather conditions for spraying. Spray operators should monitor and record wind direction, wind speed, temperature and humidity before and during every spray operation. Inexpensive hand-held devices are available to assist this. Alternatively, take readings using the Beaufort scale as shown below:

Beaufort No. Description Km/hr How to recognize

0 Calm 0–2 Smoke rises straight up

1 Light air 3–6 Smoke drifts

2 Light breeze 7–11 Wind felt on face; leaves rustle

3 Gentle breeze 12–19 Flags flap; twigs move all the time

4 Moderate breeze 20–28 Papers blow; small branches move

Do not spray:


when the wind speed is either still or very light (0–3km/hr). Under these conditions inversions may be present which can enable spray to drift over large distances. During periods of low wind speed, changes in wind direction are also more likely

when wind speeds are above 15 km/hr, as this may result in excessive movement of spray droplets downwind of the target area

when the wind is blowing towards a sensitive area, unless an effective buffer zone has been established

when temperatures are high and humidity is low, as water-based sprays may evaporate. Plants are often also stressed under such conditions, making the spray less effective.

Communicate with neighborsKeeping neighbors informed about proposed chemical use can help reduce the likelihood of misunderstanding and future conflict. Neighbors should be notified before spraying to give them an opportunity to move stock, cover wells and close house windows.

4. DURING SPRAYING

Risk monitoringSometimes conditions change while applying pesticides. For example, wind speed or direction can change quickly, or it may start raining. The pesticide applicator should constantly monitor environmental conditions while working, and may have to adjust their procedures if there are changes, or even stop the application. If conditions alter while applying the pesticide, this should be noted in the pesticide application record.

Avoiding off-target migration (including spray drift)Off-target migration is a term used to describe the off-target impact of a chemical on air, soil, groundwater and surface waters. It can occur in a variety of ways, including surface water run-off, leaching, sub-surface drainage or spray drift.

Spray drift is the airborne movement of pesticide away from the target area during or shortly after ground or aerial application. Spray drift can be in the form of droplets, fine dust or vapour.It has the potential to impact on human health, trade and the environment, and can happen even when the chemical is being applied according to label instructions.

It is important to minimize the risk of spray drift by carrying out a thorough risk assessment before spraying.

The following factors should be considered as part of continually assessing the risk for off-target migration: product awareness zones buffer zones weather conditions spray equipment.

Spray equipmentSpray equipment should be operated with the aim of reducing drift. Equipment is available to reduce spray drift, but operator expertise is also required to select the right nozzle size and type, spray pressure and spray height. For further information on methods of minimizing drift


from a specific type of spray equipment, contact a recognized spray equipment manufacturer or distributor.

Ground spraying with hand-held sprayersPreferably, use ‘low-drift’ nozzles that minimize the number of small droplets produced, consistent with the required coverage. Smaller droplets are more likely to form spray drift as they tend to remain airborne longer, and can be blown further from the target before landing. The release height and spray pressure should be set as low as possible, consistent with nozzle specifications and coverage requirements. Your spray equipment should be calibrated regularly to ensure the chemical is being applied at the correct rate, as per the manufacturer’s instructions.

Air blast sprayersAir blast sprayers are used to direct spray at high speed into the crop canopy. When setting up equipment, ensure that the spray is contained within the crop canopy, and not allowed to reach the air above the canopy. Deflectors may be used for this purpose.

When a sensitive area is downwind from the area to be sprayed, the outer row should be used as an untreated buffer for the sensitive area. Alternatively, equipment that directs spray in one direction can be used to avoid chemical being sprayed towards the sensitive area.

Aerial sprayingThe aerial contractor pilot will require an awareness zone map of the crop to be sprayed, showing the location of any neighboring sensitive areas. The pilot will also need information on nearby power lines, roads, and distance to the nearest town.

To ensure the ongoing minimization of spray drift, the area downwind of the spray site should be constantly monitored by means of, for example, spray detection cards.

5. AFTER SPRAYING

Clean upTo minimize cost and potential harm to the environment, the goal of every spray operation should be to plan the spray job carefully to avoid excess spray solution. Clean equipment away from sensitive areas such as water bodies, children’s play areas or sensitive vegetation.

DisposalIn relation to the disposal of unwanted pesticides and wash water, failure to observe the following strictures may represent a breach of the obligations under the EPA Act.

Disposal of diluted pesticideAny diluted pesticide solution that is left over from a job should be either:

taken to the next job and used there

temporarily stored for pick up by a commercial waste disposal business

diluted further with water and applied over a non-sensitive ‘sacrifice area’.

Suitable areas include areas of fallow land or pasture, internal tracks or firebreaks. Such areas should be endorsed by the client and recorded on the pesticide application record.

Disposal of wash water


Water that has been used to wash spray equipment will contain pesticide residue and possibly also cleaning agents. It should be directly disposed of at an authorized waste depot or stored in a tank that is dedicated for such storage, and which is emptied periodically by a commercial waste-disposal business.

Alternatively, this water could be disposed of by spreading it over a sacrifice area (as described above).

Disposal of empty pesticide containersEmpty pesticide containers should be triple rinsed (add rinse water to the spray tank) and disposed of.

Record of pesticide applicationA record of pesticide application for each job must be kept by the spray operator, and a copy of this record should be given to the client. Application records should include:

Date Name of Chemical

Active Ingredient(s)

# bottles used

# acres applied

Name of farmer Sex Name of

Community


Annex 2: Elements of an IPM program

Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is a systematic decision-making process that supports a balanced approach to managing crop production systems for the effective, economical and environmentally-sound suppression of pests.

IPM has evolved in response to problems caused by an over-reliance on chemical pesticides. Some of these problems are development of pesticide resistance, elimination of natural enemies of pests, outbreaks of formerly suppressed pests, hazards to non-target species, and environmental contamination.

IPM requires knowledge of how to identify pests and evaluate their damage, how to identify natural control agents, and how to select effective control methods that minimize undesirable side effects. Selection of controls for individual pests must be made with the entire crop management system in mind. Many cultural control methods are carried out as part of normal crop production operations.

Although farmers are likely using numerous IPM tactics, without really calling them that, IPM planning is not generally an active part of crop production on farms; thus, a basic understanding of the steps or elements needed in an IPM program is needed.

Step 1: Learn and value farmers’ local IPM tactics. Most farmers are already using their own forms of GAPs and IPM, many of which are novel, self-created, adapted for local conditions, and many of which work well. These local tools and tactics need to be well understood and taken into account when making PMPs. Accurate assessments of farmers’ GAPs and IPM technologies, as well as an understanding of actual losses due to different constraints in farmers’ fields are required before designing a crop production and pest management program.

Step 2: Identify key pests for each target crop. Although perhaps up to ten species of pests may impact a crop and yields at different plant growth stages, generally only two or three are considered serious enough to spend money controlling. Farmers should be encouraged to monitor their population size, their life cycle, the kind of damage they cause and actual losses. Note that crop loss figures based on farmers’ perceptions of damage and loss can often be overestimated.

Step 3: Evaluate all management options. Use of best management practices, preventive measures, and organic options to control pest impacts may eliminate the need for synthetic pesticides.

Step 4: Choose IPM methods, identify Needs and Establish Priorities.Consult farmers when choosing methods to be used. Consider the feasibility of attractive methods, including the availability of resources needed, farmers’ perceptions of pest problems, their abilities to identify pests, their predators, diseases and parasites, and to act upon their observations.

Step 5: Do effective activities and training to promote IPM.Identify strategies and mechanisms for fostering the transfer of the needed IPM technology. Define what is available for immediate transfer and what may require more adaptation and validation research. Set up an initial planning meeting with your team including famers to help define and orient implementation activities, and begin to assign individual responsibilities.


Learning-by-doing/discovery training programs The adoption of new techniques by small-, medium- and large-holder farmers occurs most readily when program participants acquire knowledge and skills through personal experience, observation, analysis, experimentation, decision-making and practice. Conduct frequent (weekly) sessions for 10–20 farmers during the cropping season in farmers’ farm (or on demo plots)

Smallholder support and discussion groups Weekly meetings of smallholders, held during the cropping season, to discuss pest and related problems can be useful for sharing the success of various control methods. However, maintaining attendance can be a challange except when there is a clear financial incentive.

Educational materialPhotographic guides to pest identification and crop-specific management techniques may be obtained from MOFA-PPRSD. Videos featuring graphic pictures of the effects of acute and chronic pesticide exposure, and interviews with poisoning victims can be particularly effective.

Step 6: Partner successfully with other IPM implementers.The following design steps are considered essential.

Articulate the vision of the IPM Organizations may forge partnerships based on a common commitment to “IPM” – only to discover too late that that their visions of IPM differ considerably. It is therefore highly important that partners articulate a common, detailed vision of IPM, centered on the crops and conditions the project will encounter.

Confirm partner institutions’ commitmentThe extent of commitment to IPM integration into project, design, and thus implementation depends strongly upon the following key variables: IPM integration into ADVANCE II. The IPM will be part of the larger ADVANCE II project. The IPM program must fit the overall goals of ADVANCE II. The extent of this integration should be clearly expressed in the annual work plan.Cost sharing. The extent of funds (or in-kind resources) is a good measure of a genuine partner commitment.Participation of key IPM personnel. Organizations should have staff with expertise in IPM. In strong partnerships, these staff members are actively involved in the partnership.

Step 7: Monitor fields regularly. During the farming season, farmers are virtually on their fields on a daily basis, but may not consciously be monitoring for pests and diseases. At minimum twice a week, farmers should monitor their fields for pests, as some pest populations increase rapidly and unexpectedly; this increase is usually related closely to the stage of crop growth and weather conditions, but it is difficult to predict the severity of pest problems in advance.

Step 8: Select an appropriate blend of IPM tools. A good IPM program draws from and integrates a variety of pest management techniques, like those presented in the above list. Flexibility to fit local needs is a key variable. Pesticides should be used only if no practical, effective, and economic non-chemical control methods are available. Once the pesticide has been carefully chosen for the pest, crop, and environment, it should be applied only to keep the pest population low, not necessarily eliminate it.

Step 9: Develop education, training, and demonstration programs APOs.


Implementation of IPM depends heavily on education, training, and demonstration to help farmers and field workers develop and evaluate the IPM methods. Hands-on training conducted in farmers’ fields (as opposed to a classroom) is a must. Special training for APOs and educational programs for farmers are important.

Step 10: Monitoring, Record-Keeping and Evaluation (M&E).Develop data collection forms and checklists, collect baseline GAP/IPM data at the beginning of the project, and set targets.

For the use and maintenance of GAPs (that include safe pesticide storage, use and disposal), maintain farm or project files of: farmer and farm employee training records; farm soil, water, biodiversity, cropping and pesticide use maps; pesticide purchase and stock records; chemical application instructions including target pest, type of chemical applied, dosage, time of spray, rates at which pesticides were applied, harvest interval days, application machinery, PPE required and used, and any special instructions on mixing, exposure to children or dangers.

Further, for project staff, beneficiaries, produce processing facilities, food warehouses, seed multipliers, or farmers that store seed or food and deal with stored seed and food pests, there are warehouse Best Management Practices (BMPs) and monitoring reports that incorporate some IPM tactics. These monitoring forms track, by location or warehouse, use of pallets, stacking, general hygiene and sanitation, damaged packages, actual infestations or signs of rodents, molds, insects, drainage, locks and security measures, use of IPM tactics including least toxic chemicals and strict BMPs for use of common but hazardous fumigants like aluminum phosphide.


Annex 3: Toxicity of Pesticides: USEPA and WHO Classifications

General ToxicityPesticides, by necessity, are poisons, but the toxicity and hazards of different compounds vary greatly. Toxicity refers to the inherent intoxicating ability of a compound whereas hazard refers to the risk or danger of poisoning when the pesticide is used or applied. Pesticide hazard depends not only on toxicity but also on the chance of exposure to toxic amounts of the pesticide. Pesticides can enter the body through oral ingestion, through the skin or through inhalation. Once inside the body, they may produce poisoning symptoms, which are either acute (from a single exposure) or chronic (from repeated exposures or absorption of smaller amounts of toxicant).

USEPA & WHO Classifications Basically, there are two systems of pesticide toxicity classification. These are the USEPA and the WHO systems of classification. It is important to note that the WHO classification is based on the active ingredient only, whereas USEPA uses product formulations to determine the toxicity class of pesticides. So, WHO classification shows relative toxicities of all pesticide active ingredients, whereas EPA classification shows actual toxicity of the formulated products, which can be more or less toxic than the active ingredient alone and are more representative of actual dangers encountered in the field. The tables below show classification of pesticides according to the two systems.

a) USEPA classification (based on formulated product = active ingredient plus inert and other ingredients)

Class Descriptive term

Mammalian LD50

Mammalian Inhalation LC50

Irritation Aquatic invert/fish (LC50 or EC50)2

Honey bee acute oral (LD50)

Oral Dermal Eye1 Skin

I Extremely toxic

50 200 0.2 Corrosive Corrosive < 0.1

II Highly toxic 50-500

200-2000

0.2-2.0 Severe Severe 0.11-1.0 < 2 µg/bee

III Moderately toxic

500-5000

2000-20000

2.0-20 No corneal opacity

Moderate 1.1-10.0 2.1-11 µg/bee

IV Slightly toxic

5000

20000

20 None Moderate or slight

10.1-100

Relatively non-toxic

101-1000

Practically non-toxic

1001-10,000

> 11 µg/bee

Non-toxic > 10,000


1 Corneal opacity not reversible within 7 days for Class I pesticides; corneal opacity reversible within 7 days but irritation persists during that period for Class II pesticides; no corneal opacity and irritation is reversible within 7 days for Class III pesticides; and Class IV pesticides cause no irritation2 Expressed in ppm or mg/l of water

b) WHO classification (based only on active or ‘technical’ ingredient)

Class Descriptive term

Oral LD50 for the rat (mg/kg body wt)

Dermal LD50 for the rat (mg/kg body wt)

Solids Liquids Solids Liquids

Ia Extremely hazardous 5 20 10 40

Ib Highly hazardous 5-50 20-200 10-100 40-400

II Moderately hazardous 50-500 20-2000 100-1000 400-4000

III Slightly hazardous 501 2001 1001 4001

UUnlikely to present acute hazard in normal use

2000 3000 - -


Annex 4. Pesticide use monitoring sheet for demo plots

1 Date / / 2 Name of community Day Month Year

3 Name of farmer 4 Name of Officer

5 Crop Maize Soya Rice

6 Pests and diseases encountered

Insects Bacterial Fungal Viral Parasitic plants Animal pests

7 Pesticides used

Active ingredient(s) Commercial Product Name Purpose of application


8 Did farmer patronize the services of a Spray Service Provider? Yes No

9 What time of day were pesticides applied? Morning Afternoon Evening

10 How are pesticides applied? backpack sprayer Other [Specify]

11 Which PPEs does farmer have?Other

PPE Gloves Overalls Boots face shield GogglesNose mask Helmet

Number

12 Has farmer ever received safe pesticide use training? Yes No

13 Are there any empty pesticide containers in the field? Yes No

14 Did women take part in pesticide application? Yes No Not sure

15 Did children take part in pesticide application? Yes No Not sure

16 Is there evidence that empty pesticide containers are used to store water or food items? Yes No Not sure

17 How does farmer dispose of empty pesticide containers? Bury Burn Re-used

Return to shop Thrown away Waste bin

18 Does farmer wash clothes after applying pesticides? Yes No Not applicable

19 Is there any evidence that the pesticide(s) applied is/are becoming less effective? Yes No

if more than one pesticide was used indicate which one shows ineffectiveness and why you think so


Annex 5. PERSUAP implementation progress in 2015

Objective/Issues Actions required Progress of implementationA5.Reduce reliance on

pesticides.

Local pest control options are limited.

Pesticides are costly and may not be used safely



varieties

9567 small holder farmers were trained on safe pesticide handling and IPM procedures as part of GAP trainings at 252 demo sites.

A6.Promote use of PPEs





The project acquired gloves for use on all 252 demo sites during planting. This was to introduce smallholder farmers to the culture of protecting themselves when planting treated seed.

A7.Discourage re-use of pesticide containers





Three radio jingles were developed and played on 8 radio stations to discourage re-use of pesticide containers.

The project also facilitated radio discussions with experts from the EPA and MOFA to educate farmers on the dangers of using pesticide containers

A8.Discourage women and children from pesticide application

Limited farm labour compelling women to apply pesticides.



Another radio jingle to discourage women and children from pesticide applications was developed and played on 8 radio stations.

B4.Promote safe disposal of pesticide containers





19 collection centers have been identified in the Upper West Region, 6 in the Upper East Region and 8 in the Northern Region. The collection centers are located with OBs and Input dealers and linked to Spray Service Providers.

In 2016 Spray Service Providers will serve as the main conduit for returning empty containers to the collection centers for proper disposal

B5.Minimize ground and surface water contamination.

Reduce soil disturbance such as reduced tillage.

The project facilitated the setup of 32 minimum tillage demonstration plots to encourage farmers to


Pesticide use near water bodies.

Pesticide use on wet fields with flowing water.

Pesticide use immediately after rainfall.


adopt the practice of minimum soil disturbance.

B6.Minimize potential for using pesticides more than necessary.

Farmers may apply pesticides, especially for storage grain, without actually encountering the threat of a pest invasion leading sometimes to avoidable high cost of agrochemicals and over application of pesticides.

Promote GAPs and IPM to reduce over reliance on pesticides.

Good Agronomic Practices (GAPS) always been the major focus of ADVANCE demonstration plots.

SSPs were trained on effective application methods as well as the correct dosage.

OBs have been trained to keep records of pesticide applications to guide future applications.

C4.Conduct safe pesticide use training



The project adopted existing training materials from the EPA, MOFA-PPRSD, and the ATT Project to train farmers and agrochemical dealers.






51 persons were trained to operate as commercial spray service providers in the Upper East Region and 71 in the Upper West Region based on training materials from the EPA, MOFA, and the ATT project.




Train farmers to read and understand the symbols and colours on pesticide labels.


The program continued to use the ERSUAP recommended agrochemicals as a guide for farmers to choose the least toxic products available on the market. All ADVANCE demonstration plots used the PERSUAP-recommended agrochemicals and also encouraged input dealers working with the project to sell only pesticides approved by the EPA.


Annex 6: Pesticide use monitoring report 2015

1. Introduction

Evaluating the risks, impacts and benefits of pesticides is an ongoing dynamic process. Successful monitoring of pesticide use ensures that pesticides are used only when really needed, and that the wrong kind of pesticide is never used. Monitoring pesticide use by farmers is a requirement of the ADVANCE pesticide use policy (PERSUAP). This exercise was conducted for every farmer who hosted a demonstration plot. The information collected covered the demo plot and the farmer’s own farm. The information collected was in line with the safer use actions required by the PERSUAP and included the following:

a. Pests and diseases;b. Pesticides used and purpose of application;c. Personal Protective Equipment;d. Mode of pesticide application; ande. Disposal of pesticide containers.

A total of 254 demo farms involving 253 farmers who hosted demonstration plots were monitored. Two of the demos were community-based cover crop demos. This activity did not include ADVANCE South. This is because the main crop season in the South was over before the time this activity was scheduled. ADVANCE South will be captured in the next crop season. The breakdown of demos per crop and Region are shown in figure 1 below.

NR UE UW0

10

20

30

40

50

60

70

61

53

44

1713

5

37

12 12

MaizeRiceSoya

Num

ber o

f dem

os

Figure1: Number of demos distributed by Region and crop

The information collected will inform the revision of the ADVANCE PERSUAP in terms of recommended pesticides and training topics. It is also expected to inform places where training activities should be focused. It also serves as a baseline for monitoring progress of safe pesticide use among farmers.


Crop Number of demos

Maize 158Rice 35Soya 61

2. Pests and diseases

The need for pesticides is a function of the incidence of pests and diseases. An understanding of the pests and diseases that cause economic injury to crops allows for prior planning in selecting appropriate control measures. Despite the use of modern pesticides the PPRSD estimates that about 30% of Ghana’s food production is lost to pests and diseases. Food crops must compete with weeds, plant eating insects, nematodes, animals and countless diseases. Without pest control measures, crop production can fall. This will work against the goal of the ADVANCE project.

Insects and animals were the most prevalent pest problems encountered in the 2015 crop season. Ants and locusts were the most prevalent insect problems, particularly on maize and soya farms. A total of 131 demos suffered pest and disease attacks to varying degrees. Tables 1 and 2 below show the number of demos affected by various insects and animal pests respectively.

Table 1. Insect pest infestations on demos

Insect Number of demos affectedMaize Rice Soya

Ants 35 0 25

Beetles 6 0 3

Grasshoppers/Locusts 53 6 28

Brown stink bug 6 0 0

Corn earworm 8 0 0

Stem borers 2 0 0

Army worm 3 0 1

Billbugs 1 0 0

Caterpillars 8 0 2

Leaf miners 8 0 5

Steiner 1 0 0

Termites 7 1 0

Green clover worm 0 0 3

Leaf rollers 0 0 2

Crickets 0 0 3

Totals 138 7 72


Table 2. Animal pests that affected demos

Animal PestNumber of demos affected

Maize Rice Soya

Cattle 6 2 1

Sheep 7 2 2

Goats 13 2 9

Grasscutter (Cane rat) 14 0 9

Partridges 1 0 0

Pigeons 1 0 1

Guinea fowls 1 3 1

Birds (unspecified) 1 1 0

Totals 44 10 23

Fungal infections

Fungal disease # of demosMaize

leaf spot 5eyespot 1rust 1

Riceleaf spot 1

Soyleaf spot 1

Total 9

3. Pesticide applications

The US EPA defines a pesticide as any substance or mixture of substances intended for preventing, destroying, repelling or mitigating any pest. Though often misunderstood to refer only to insecticides, the term pesticide also applies to herbicides, fungicides, and plant regulators as well.

Weed control accounted for 95% of all pesticide applications. Insect control accounted for the rest. Twelve (12) Active Ingredients were applied made of 8 herbicides and 4 insecticides. These Active Ingredients were recorded for both demo plots and farmers’ own farms. Three Active Ingredients were not PERSUAP compliant but were found to be EPA registered. Two of the non-compliant Active Ingredients were applied by farmers on their


Disease incidence was generally low. Only a few plots recorded minor incidence s of leaf spot, eyespot and rust infections. Leaf spot was the commonest infection.

LimitationDisease identification was challenging for APOs, especially those for rice and soybean plots. This was largely due to lack of field guides to facilitate disease identification on rice and soybean plots

own farms, not on the demo plots. Abamectin which was used to control locusts on soybean and maize farms was applied on demos mostly in the Northern Region.

The number of demos which used pesticides was 210 while 44 demos had no need for pesticides.

Table 3: Pesticides applied in the 2015 crop season

Active Ingredient Number of demos applied

Purpose of application Comment

HERBICIDES

Glyphosate 175 As part of land preparation PERSUAP Compliant

Atrazine 24 As part of land preparation PERSUAP Compliant

2,4-D Amine 9 Weed control on maize plots PERSUAP Compliant

Metolachlor +Terbutryn 29 Pre-emergence herbicide

application on maize plots PERSUAP Compliant

Bispyribac sodium 18 Weed control on rice plots PERSUAP Compliant

Nicosulfuron 3 Weed control on maize plots PERSUAP Compliant

Pendimethalin 7 Pre-emergence herbicide application on maize plots PERSUAP Compliant

Imazethapyr 1 Control of weeds in soya Not compliant

INSECTICIDES

Abamectin 7 Control of grasshoppers on soybean and maize plots

Not PERSUAP compliant but is EPA registered

Bifenthrin + Acetamiprid 5

Control of grasshoppers on soybean, maize, and rice plots

PERSUAP Compliant

Carbofuran 1 Control antsNot compliant; not recommended on USAID projects

Imidacloprid 1 Control ants and termites PERSUAP Compliant

4. Personal Protective Equipment

Personal protective equipment (PPE) refers to protective clothing, helmets, goggles, and other garments or equipment designed to protect a pesticide applicator from contamination.

Promoting the use of PPEs among farmers is one of the objectives of the ADVANCE PERSUAP. The use of PPEs is an indication of farmers’ appreciation of the potential hazards of using pesticides. Farmers were asked to indicate if they had the following PPES: Gloves, Overall, Boots, face shield, Goggles, helmet (or cap), Nose mask.

Out of the 253 farmers whose farms were monitored, 193 of them had at least one type of PPE. Seven (7) farmers had all 7 types of PPEs while 60 (23.7%) of them had no PPEs at all. Figure 2 below illustrates the number of farmers who have the various types of PPEs.


0 1 2 3 4 5 6 70

10

20

30

40

50

60

70

80

Number of types of PPEs

Num

ber o

f far

mer

s

Figure 2: Numbers of PPEs among farmers

Among farmers who had at least one type of PPE, the most common type of PPE was Wellington boots (74 persons) followed by Overalls (35 farmers) and Gloves (28 farmers). The least common type of PPE was face shield (4 farmers). These are illustrated in figure 3. Figures 4 and 5 illustrate the proportional distribution of PPEs among farmers by crop and by Region respectively.

The proportion of soya farmers with PPEs was generally lower than maize and rice farmers. A notable observation is the low number of nose masks among soya famers. Notable observations in the Regional distribution of PPEs are:

(1) Zero number of nose masks among farmers in the Upper West Region. A follow up with input dealers in the Region will be required to determine the status of nose masks on the market. It could be that there are no nose masks on the market.

(2) Low numbers of farmers having goggles and overalls in Northern Region.


Gloves Overall Boots face shield

Goggles Helmet Nose mask

0

10

20

30

40

50

60

70

80

28

35

74

4

17

24

16

Perc

enta

ge o

f far

mer

s

Figure 3: Distribution of PPEs among farmers



-

10

20

30

40

50

60

70

80

90

MaizeRiceSoya

Perc

enta

ge o

f far

mer

s

Figure 4: Distribution of PPEs by crop




-

10

20

30

40

50

60

70

80

90

Northern U. EastU. West

Perc

enta

ge o

f far

mer

s

Figure 5: Distribution of PPEs by Region

5. Pesticide application

This section considers the patronage of SSPs among farmers, time and mode of pesticide application, and women & children taking part in pesticide applications.

Patronage of Spray Service Providers (SSPs)

The number of farmers patronizing the services of commercial spray service providers is still low. This may be due to an equally low number of commercial spray service providers available.

NR UE UW0

20

40

60

80

100

120

410 10

105

5347

YesNo

Num

ber o

f far

mer

s

Figure 6: Number of farmers accessing Spray Services

Figure 6 shows the number of farmers in each Region who patronized the services of SSPs. Northern Region had a much lower proportion of farmers patronizing the services of SSPs. The number of functional SSPs trained by ADVANCE is currently as follows:


Table 4: Regional distribution of Spray Service Providers

RegionNo of functional

SSPsRemarks

Northern Region 8- 5 are linked to Outgrower Businesses- 3 are linked to Input dealers

Upper East Region 7

- 3 are linked to Outgrower Businesses- 2 are linked to input dealers- 2 are working independently

Upper West Region 6 - All are linked to Outgrower Businesses

Time of application

The recommended times for pesticide application are early in the morning or late in the evening when it is less windy. Windy weather can minimize the usefulness of the product. Applying pesticides when it is less windy also minimizes the potential for pesticides to be carried away to non-target areas and become a source of pollution to the environment. It also minimizes the potential for self-contamination.

A greater majority of farmers (90%) who applied pesticides did so in the morning and/or evening. Only 10% of farmers applied pesticides in the afternoon. Figure 7 below provides a breakdown of the proportion of farmers who applied pesticides at different times of the day.

11%

11%

77%

2%

AfternoonEveningMorningMorning & Evening

Figure 7: Proportion of farmers who applied pesticides at various times of the day

Women and children taking part in pesticide applications

This section applied to the whole community. The farmer was asked to indicate whether women and children took part in pesticide application in their community. Where it was not possible to conclusively determine the answer, an answer of ‘not sure’ was selected. The number of communities which recorded women and children taking part in pesticide application was generally small. There were no incidence of women applying pesticides in any communities in Northern and Upper West Regions. One community in the Upper East


Region recorded incidence of women applying pesticides. The community is Zinga in the Bolgatanga Municipality. It was also the only community where children took part in pesticide application. Figures 8 and 9 provide Regional breakdown for communities where women and children took part in pesticide applications.

One of the safer use actions recommended by the ADVANCE PERSUAP is to discourage women and children from taking part in pesticide application. Women are at a greater risk of pesticide exposure. Women often carry babies and food. There is the likelihood of exposing babies and food to pesticides when women take part in pesticide application. Expectant mothers may develop pregnancy complications with exposure to pesticides.

Children taking part in pesticide application is, first a child labour issue, but more importantly a health and safety concern. Children are at a higher risk of pesticide poisoning than adults. Children have speedier metabolic rates, which mean they take in more water, food and air. And their bodies are less able to detoxify and expel harmful chemicals.

In short, children are absorbing a higher load of pesticides at a time when their bodies are still developing, and are thus least equipped to protect themselves.

Northern Region Upper East Upper West0

20

40

60

80

100

120107

66

52

5 2 50 1 0

NoNot sureYes

Num

ber o

f far

mer

s

Figure 8: Number of communities with women taking part in pesticide application



10

20

30

40

50

60

70

80

90

100 95

64

53

6 4 411

1 0

NoNot sureYes

Num

ber o

f far

mer

s

Figure 9: Number of communities with children taking part in pesticide application

6. Container disposal

Improper disposal of empty pesticide containers leads to contamination of the environment, animals and human beings. The recommended methods of disposal are burial, burning and recycling. The present recommended methods on the ADVANCE project are burial and burning. Unsafe methods of disposal that may be found include throwing away and using containers for domestic purposes such storing food items, drinking water, and local alcoholic beverages such as pito. Four main methods of disposal were encountered as shown in figure 10. Farmers were asked to indicate which of the 4 methods of disposal was happening in their communities. Fifty two (52%) percent of the communities are disposing pesticide containers the right way with the Upper West Region leading. Forty five (45) percent of communities are throwing them away and 3% are re-using them.

The number of communities where people are using pesticide containers was zero in the Upper East Region and high in the Upper West Region. Northern Region recorded a greater number of communities where farmers are throwing containers away while the lowest was in the Upper West Region.


Burn21%

burry31%

Thrown away45%

Re-used3%

Figure 10: Container disposal practices among communities

Burn Burry Thrown away Re-used0

10

20

30

40

50

60

70

80

NRUEUW

Num

ber o

f far

mer

s

Figure 11: Container disposal practices by Region

Evidence of empty pesticide containers on the farms of farmers who hosted demos was generally low but significant. As many as 16 farmers had empty containers on their farms. A proper conclusion could not be made for 49 farmers due to poor access to farms and non-availability of farmers at the time of visiting their farms.



10

20

30

40

50

60

70

80

90

10089

60

36

1813

18

82

6

NoNot SureYes

Num

ber o

f far

mer

s

Figure 12: Number of farmers with empty pesticide containers on their farms

7. Conclusions

This exercise provides basis for measuring progress in the implementation of the Safer Use Actions required by the ADVANCE PERSUAP. Therefore the conclusions to be drawn from this exercise are best made in that regard as follows:

(a) Reducing reliance on pesticides

It is the consideration of the PERSUAP that local pest control options are limited and so farmers rely on chemical methods which may not be used safely. The PERSUAP emphasizes the use of IPM and crop rotation as important approaches to reduce the incidence of pests and diseases before considering chemical control options. The results from this monitoring exercise show that about 17% of farmers are not applying pesticides. Those applying pesticides are not using more than two types of pesticides per season. Farmers are using more herbicides than insecticides.

(b) Promoting the use of PPEs

The number of farmers with no PPEs at all was surprisingly high at 23.7%. Farmers with PPEs Mostly had just one or two types of PPEs, which often included Wellington boots. PPEs that cover the head region such as nose mask, goggles and helmet are critical for pesticide safety as there are many openings in the head region through which pesticides can get into the body. The number of farmer of farmers with these items including gloves is still low. Every farmer who hosts a demo, at a minimum, should be encouraged to have gloves and nose mask.

(c) Discouraging re-use of pesticide containers

One of the radio-jingles the project sponsored to promote safe use of pesticides was meant to discourage farmers from re-using pesticide containers for any other purpose. The radio broadcasts may have yielded substantial benefits than was anticipated. Out of the 253 communities where demos were located only 8 communities were reported to have people still re-using pesticide containers. Upper West recorded the highest incidence of


communities using pesticide containers. It is possible the radio broadcasts in Upper West did not reach as many farmers as it did in the other Regions. The time of broadcast, period of broadcast, and the radio stations selected should be reviewed to improve on the radio outreach program in the Upper West Region. Future radio broadcasts should include more radio stations in the Region.

(d) Promoting safe disposal of pesticide containers

In many communities farmers are still throwing away empty pesticide containers rather than burying or burning, particularly in the Northern Region. The education in this area needs to be reviewed and greatly enhanced. It is the area communities have not shown remarkable response so far. It is likely the messages are ineffective.

(e) Discouraging women and children from pesticide application

The number of communities where women and children are taking part in pesticide application was just one. This is, perhaps the greatest achievement so far with pesticide use safety on the project.

(f) Promoting the services of SSPs

Spray Service Providers are still very limited in many places and so access to commercial spray services is also limited. The FY2016 work plan considered SSP development quite significantly. The story should change significantly if the activities for SSP development are carried through as planned in 2016.

(g) Avoiding the use of highly toxic products

No high toxicity pesticide was used. The toxicity of the pesticides used ranged from low to moderately toxic


Annex 7: Pesticides from the 2015 PERAUAP that have lost their registration status in Ghana.




in Ghana

USEPA Toxicity

Class

Gh EPAToxicity

Class

Target Crops

INSECTICIDES1. Fenvalerate

(200g/L)Fentox 20EC III II Soy

2. Imidacloprid (30g/kg)

Bastion Extra 3G II-III II MaizeSoy


Lambtox 2.5 EC I-III II RiceMaize

FUNGICIDES4. Mancozeb

(800G/Kg)Cotzeb 80 WP IV III Rice

HERBICIDES5. Atrazine

(500g/l)Atrazine 500 SC III III Maize

6. Atrazine (800g/kg)

Sun- Atrazine 80 WP

III III Maize

7. Atrazine (800g/kg)

Cotrazine 80WP III III Maize


Bounty 40SC III Rice


Tackle II-III III

10. Glyphosate (41% w/w)

Weedcot SL II-III III

11. Glyphosate (41% w/w)

Weedout II-III III

Annex 8: Environmental Protection Agency, Accra, List of banned pesticides

1. 2,4,5-T and its salts and esters2. Aldrin3. Binapacryl4. Captafol5. Chlordane6. Chlordimeform7. Chlorobenzilate8. DDT9. Dieldrin10. Dinoseb and its salts and esters11. Dinitro-ortho-cresol (DNOC) and its salts (such as ammonium salt, potassium salt and

sodium salt)12. Endrin13. HCH (mixed isomers)14. Heptachlor15. Hexachlorobenzene16. Parathion17. Pentachlorophenol and its salts and esters18. Toxaphene19. Mirex20. Methamidophos (Soluble liquid formulations of the substance that exceed 600 g active

ingredient/l)21. Methyl-parathion (emulsifiable concentrates (EC) with at or above 19.5% active

ingredient and dusts at or above 1.5% active ingredient)22. Monocrotophos (Soluble liquid formulations of the substance that exceed 600 g active

ingredient/l)23. Parathion (all formulations - aerosols, dustable powder (DP), emulsifiable concentrate

(EC), granules (GR) and wettable powders (WP) - of this substance are included, except capsule suspensions (CS))

24. Phosphamidon (Soluble liquid formulations of the substance that exceed 1000 g active ingredient/l)

25. Dustable powder formulations containing a combination of Benomyl at or above 7%, Carbofuran at or above 10% and Thiram at or above 15%

26. Methyl Bromide


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