Toxic Farm Chemicals

The most common toxic chemicals found on farms are contained in pesticides, herbicides and synthetic fertilizers. Farms employ insect-killing sprays and weed killers to protect crops and livestock, while fertilizers are designed to boost crop yield.The relative hazard of chemicals depends on the level of exposure to humans or animals.

Insecticides

• Left uncontrolled, mosquitos can be a health hazard.

  Insecticides are important to farms and to overall public health, because they can prevent insect-borne diseases in both humans and animals. Insecticides in general have become safer in the United States since the banning of DDT in 1972; the U.S. is one of many countries that have prohibited its use. Insects can destroy crops, causing financial ruin to farmers and raising prices for consumers.

Herbicides

• Herbicides are often applied to control weeds.

  Herbicides, commonly referred to as weed killers, are among the most common chemicals found on farms. Farmers routinely use herbicides to control weed growth in crops. There is a concern that crops sprayed with herbicides can enter the food chain and be consumed by humans or animals. Consumers who purchase commercially grown produce are advised to wash it before eating.

Rodenticides

• Rodents cause damage and carry diseases.

  Rodenticides are used on farms to kill rodents, such as mice and rats, which eat grain and carry diseases to livestock as well as humans. One of the most serious organisms spread by mice is salmonella. Rodents are also very destructive to farm buildings and storage areas, creating extensive financial hardship.

Fungicides

• Fungicides are commonly used in vineyards.

  Fungicides are particularly important to farms in warm and humid climates to control mold, mildew and damaging fungi. While homeowners might use fungicides on lawns and ornamental grasses, trees and shrubs, farmers who have orchards, produce commercial sod or raise vegetables or fruit in greenhouses consider fungicides essential to their yields. Many fungicides are effective at controlling diseases that can destroy crops.

Fertilizers

• Fertilizers are also common on farms, taking the form of either organic compost or commercially made chemical products. Unlike other common farm or garden chemicals, fertilizers do not kill pests or other organisms; instead, they are designed to increase crop yields or promote strong growth. Chemical fertilizers can irritate the skin and can be harmful if inhaled, so farmers using them must protect their skin and cover their mouths when applying them.