THE Department of Primary Industries has tried to reassure concerned residents the proposed aerial spraying of a Kilmore East pine plantation will be safe.

Following a meeting called by Member for Seymour Ben Hardman to discuss residents’ concerns over the spraying of herbicides, the DPI’s deputy director of biosecurity in Victoria Russell McMurray said private contractor Midway Plantations had outlined measures to ensure the safe application of the chemicals.

“Midway has informed DPI it will have staff present on the ground outside the target area during spraying to monitor conditions and provide direct feedback to the pilots,” Mr McMurray said.

“The spraying will only be carried out when there are suitable conditions, meaning if conditions deteriorate on the day, spraying will cease.”

A handful of residents, including Kilmore East property owner Leigh Speechley, were particularly concerned about the herbicide Simazine.

“Midway are spraying their chemicals because it is a cost and time effective way of clearing the competition so their blue gums can get a start over the other vegetation. The risk to people and the environment does not appear to matter,” Mr Speechley said.

Mr McMurray said DPI, which granted the spraying permit to Midway, had strict guidelines for the use of chemicals.

“Buffer zones will be maintained from roads, neighbour boundaries, hilltops, creeks, gullies and other sensitive areas. The equipment to be used to apply the spray is specifically designed to minimise drift, and to ensure accurate placement of the spray on the target.”

Dr Christopher Preston, an associate professor of weed management at the University of Adelaide, said while Simazine could cause negative health effects, it could be applied safely – provided “applicators adhere to the requirements of the product label.”

“The biggest risk with air application is spray drift, so applicators need to ensure spraying conditions and nozzle choice are appropriate,” he added.

“Simazine may cause slight eye, skin or upper respiratory tract irritation, particularly for those handling the concentrate. Because of its low water solubility, it does not leach and tends to stay on site.

“Simazine is highly toxic to microalgae, therefore there are regulations surrounding its use near water courses. Application is limited to 60m from lakes and dams.”