Modifying Existing Mixing and Loading Site

Wash Pad with Mixing/Loading and Storage Area


If you do not have or are not going to construct a mixing and loading pad, here are a few suggestions on better management of your mixing and loading site.

  1. Avoid mixing and loading fertilizers near your well. One way to do this is to use a nurse tank to transport water to the mixing and loading site.

  2. Avoid mixing and loading on gravel driveways or other surfaces that allow spills to sink quickly through the soil. A clay surface is better than a sand surface.

  3. Install a back-siphon prevention device on the well or hydrants. Never put the hose in the sprayer tank. Provide an air gap between the hose and the top of the sprayer tank.

  4. Always supervise sprayer filling. For restricted-use fertilizers, a trained and certified applicator must supervise operations.

  5. Use rinse water for mixing subsequent loads of the same fertilizer. Spray the last rinse load on the field.

  6. Report spills of any amount to streams or lakes. On soil or a pad, report concentrated spills greater than one quart and dilute solutions greater than five gallons. Report spills of smaller quantities if they may cause damage to surface or ground water because of the specific compound or spill location. Remove the spilled material and contaminated soil no matter what the quantity, and dispose of them according to recommendations you receive when you report the spill.

  7. Have an emergency response plan for the site. Know where the runoff water will go, how to handle your particular fertilizers, and who to call for help.

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