The Arkansas Groundwater Monitoring Program works to prevent groundwater contamination from agricultural chemicals and respond effectively if contamination occurs. The program addresses both point source contamination from a specific site and nonpoint source contamination. Its core goal is to:
- Protect public health and welfare
- Preserve terrestrial and aquatic life
- Safeguard the environment
- Support agriculture and industry
- Maintain long-term economic health
Preserving groundwater quality is more cost-effective and sustainable than attempting to restore it after contamination.
Monitoring Approach
Since 2004, the Department has monitored groundwater in vulnerable areas (regions with high agricultural activity and pesticide use) using an EPA-approved Pesticide Management Plan. This plan includes coordination with the Arkansas Department of Health to determine appropriate response actions if contamination is confirmed.
Voluntary Sampling Program
The Groundwater Program offers free laboratory testing of agricultural well water as a voluntary service to farmers and applicators. Benefits of participation include detecting potential pesticide contamination, ensuring pesticides are used safely and according to label directions, and helping producers prevent environmental or regulatory issues.
Groundwater Best Management Practices for Pesticide Use
Best management practices (BMPs) are a practice or combination of practices determined to be the most effective and practical means of preventing or reducing pesticide contamination from non-point and point sources to protect the beneficial uses of water. The following is a list of BMPs some or all of which could apply to both the commercial applicator and the non-commercial applicator.
- Know the Application Site – Scout the area to evaluate the extent of the pest problem in order to select the appropriate control method. Identify environmentally sensitive areas and understand how soil type and site layout affect the movement of water.
- Read and Follow Label Directions – Pesticide labels contain important information about applicator and environmental safety, including water quality protection. Always follow label directions.
- Match Application Rates to the Pest Problem – Every pesticide label specifies application rates. Carefully consider the pest type, level of infestation, location, and environmental factors such as soil type and organic matter.
- Do Not Mix and Load Near Water – Pesticides can reach groundwater and surface water from spills during mixing and loading. Always mix and load at least 50 feet from wells, lakes, streams, rivers, and storm drains. Consider using a liquid-tight mixing and loading pad and ensure all containers are secured.
- Prevent Backsiphoning – When filling a pesticide spray tank, keep the hose above the spray solution level. Backsiphoning can occur if the hose drops below the solution and water pressure decreases. Use an approved anti-backsiphoning device or air gap.
- Calibrate Application Equipment Properly – Frequently inspect and maintain spray nozzles, hoses, gauges, and tanks. Proper calibration ensures accurate application rates and effective pest control.
- Delay Pesticide Applications if Heavy Rain Is Forecast – Pesticides are most susceptible to runoff during the first several hours after application.
- Avoid Overspray and Drift – Check label restrictions for wind conditions. Wind speed, temperature, and humidity all affect drift. Reduce drift by lowering boom height and using nozzles that produce larger droplets.
- Store Pesticides in a Safe Place – Store pesticides securely in their original containers with labels visible. Keep them at least 50 feet from wells unless stored in secondary containment.
- Properly Dispose of Pesticide Containers – Follow label directions for disposal. Triple- or pressure-rinse containers, puncture them, and dispose of or recycle properly. Apply rinsate according to label instructions.
- Develop an Emergency Response Plan – Anyone who stores, handles, or uses pesticides should have a plan in place in case of an accident. Let’s protect our water for the future.
- Properly Dispose Of Pesticide Containers – Information about container disposal is on the pesticide label. Containers should be triple or pressured-rinsed thoroughly after use, punctured and disposed of in accordance with label directions or offered for recycling. Sprayers should be cleaned at the application site whenever possible and at a safe distance from wells, lakes, streams and storm drains. The rinsate should be sprayed on a site that is listed on the pesticide label or used as makeup water in the next tank mix. Be sure label rates are not exceeded.
- Develop An Emergency Response Plan – Anyone who stores, handles or uses pesticides should have an emergency response plan in case an accident occur Lets protect our water for the future.
Using BMPs is the most effective way to prevent groundwater contamination. While BMPs cannot guarantee contamination won’t occur, they serve as critical tools for reducing pesticide runoff, protecting water sources, and promoting responsible pesticide use.