Turf managers and public works departments now have a real-time tool to help minimize spray drift, runoff and other chemical application issues that can negatively impact their operations and communities. DTN has announced the addition of spray outlook capabilities to its weather product, WeatherSentry. The tool combines real-time access to the company’s weather forecasts, along with customizable parameters for the specific product being sprayed to show the best windows for application.
With today’s volatile chemicals, the risk of off-target applications is a significant concern for many and can result in costly public health, operations and legal issues. Surface temperature inversions in particular pose a major application risk. Such inversions can suspend chemical droplets in the air, which can then drift off course as conditions change, potentially damaging neighboring trees and lawns. Wind and rain also are common spraying challenges.
“Weather is an important factor to consider when determining the right time to apply chemicals to any turf or grassy area,” said Jon Reifschneider, senior vice president of weather at DTN. “We know that our turf and public works management customers strive to ensure they are spraying safely to reduce drift and runoff issues. This tool helps them safely maximize spray windows, improve planning and avoid costly mistakes and reapplications.”
The DTN Spray Outlook is now available, free of charge, to those who subscribe to WeatherSentry’s Turf, Sports, and Transportation Editions. Users can leverage inversion risk forecasts for specific locations to make informed decisions regarding spraying operations. Farmers in the United States are already using DTN Spray Outlook to help them successfully manage safe spraying operations and reduce drift risks.