Protect your water supply from backsiphoning of pesticides

Christina Curell<curellc@msu.edu>, Michigan State University Extension -

There are easy steps to prevent backsiphoning of pesticides into your water supply.

Backsiphoning of pesticides into water sources when filling sprayers is a dangerous occurrence. Pesticides are inadvertently “poured” into wells, rivers, lakes, etc. by accident. Preventing this problem is quite easily solved and requires minimal, if any, financial obligations.

To prevent backsiphoning follow these simple procedures:

  1. Fill the spray tank with water before adding pesticide
  2. Fill on an impervious surface or, if you fill in-field, rotate location
  3. Fill the tank from an offset hydrant that is at least 150 feet from the wellhead. If this is not feasible, get a 150 foot hose and fill 150 feet away from wellhead
  4. Secure the water hose 6 inches above the tank opening to ensure at least a 6 inch air gap
  5. Use an anti-backflow device on pumping equipment
  6. If chemigating and/or fertigating use a legal anti-backflow device.

For more information on proper filling of sprayers consult your MSU Extension office. For more information on anti-backflow devices for irrigation systems contact your local health department or MSU Extension office.

This article was published by Michigan State University Extension. For more information, visit https://extension.msu.edu. To have a digest of information delivered straight to your email inbox, visit https://extension.msu.edu/newsletters. To contact an expert in your area, visit https://extension.msu.edu/experts, or call 888-MSUE4MI (888-678-3464).

Did you find this article useful?

You Might Also Be Interested In

Tag List
  • field crops,
  • fruit & nuts,
  • landscaping,
  • msu extension,
  • nursery & christmas trees,
  • turf,
  • vegetables
Michigan State University
  • Spartans Will.
  • © Michigan State University

MSU is an affirmative-action, equal-opportunity employer, committed to achieving excellence through a diverse workforce and inclusive culture that encourages all people to reach their full potential.

Michigan State University Extension programs and materials are open to all without regard to race, color, national origin, gender, gender identity, religion, age, height, weight, disability, political beliefs, sexual orientation, marital status, family status or veteran status. Issued in furtherance of MSU Extension work, acts of May 8 and June 30, 1914, in cooperation with the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Quentin Tyler, Director, MSU Extension, East Lansing, MI 48824. This information is for educational purposes only. Reference to commercial products or trade names does not imply endorsement by MSU Extension or bias against those not mentioned.

The 4-H Name and Emblem have special protections from Congress, protected by code 18 USC 707.

We comply with the Federal Trade Commission 1998 Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA).