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An Interactive Spray Drift Simulator
Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering Conference Proceedings and Presentations
  • John Phillip Kruckeberg, Iowa State University
  • H. Mark Hanna, Iowa State University
  • Matthew J. Darr, Iowa State University
  • Brian L. Steward, Iowa State University
Document Type
Conference Proceeding
Conference
2010 ASABE Annual International Meeting
Publication Date
6-1-2010
Geolocation
(40.4406248, -79.9958864)
Abstract

The off target movement of pesticides, known as spray drift, results in a reduction in application rates, damage to non-target organisms, and environmental concerns. Much of this drift can be eliminated if its prevalence is understood and best management practices are implemented. Drift prediction software has been developed to serve as a management tool in determining the effects of applying pesticides under certain operating conditions. To further increase the usefulness and instructiveness of such programs, a program was developed which links spray drift prediction software (DRIFTSIM) with a GPS simulator to obtain a two dimensional representation of drift for simulated ground based spraying event. The program was evaluated using a variety of operating conditions to determine their respective effects on drift deposition levels. Results from the simulations show the importance of choosing the largest sufficient nozzle size, operating under low wind speeds, and spraying at the lowest possible boom height. Analysis of multi-swath simulations showed patterns of increased and reduced application rates due to spray drift.

Copyright Owner
American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers
Language
en
Citation Information
John Phillip Kruckeberg, H. Mark Hanna, Matthew J. Darr and Brian L. Steward. "An Interactive Spray Drift Simulator" Pittsburgh, PA(2010)
Available at: http://works.bepress.com/brian_steward/46/