Drifting orchard spray deemed hazardous

A chemical used in an unannounced spraying of a Seeka orchard, which drifted on to neighbouring properties, is hazardous to humans and domestic animals.
The Bay of Plenty Times yesterday published an article featuring concerned Kairua Rd residents suffering sore throats, tingling numb lips and sore lungs after biofungicide Serenade Max was sprayed in their area - which they had not been warned about.
In the article a spokeswoman for Kiwifruit Vine Health (KVH), the local organisation that recommends Serenade Max in the treatment of Psa-infected vines, said the chemical was of no harm to any humans or animals aside from bees.
But the makers of Serenade Max say it is hazardous to humans and domestic animals, with a caution notice advising users to avoid contact with skin, eyes or clothing.
AgraQuest, on its website, also states Serenade Max is harmful if absorbed through skin or inhaled and users were to "avoid breathing dust of spray mist". Calling a poison control centre or doctor for further treatment was also advised as part of first aid.
The spokeswoman for KVH was unable to comment yesterday and had not responded by time of publication today.
Kairua Rd resident Sharon Holmes said there was no excuse for residents not to have been notified of the spraying.
Ms Holmes was especially concerned as she was looking after several racehorses at her neighbour's property, including three broodmares.
However, she accepted an apology offered by Seeka chief executive Michael Franks.
"He said he wanted to look me in the eye and apologise in person," Ms Holmes said. "I think that's nice that a CEO has accepted that. I'm not happy it's happened, but he's done the right thing."
Ms Holmes said Mr Franks also offered to "look after" any issues that could later arise from the spraying, such as possible illness. She said he also encouraged her to contact him directly if there she had any other concerns.
However, a co-owner of two of the broodmares said Seeka's apology was not good enough.
Kaye Dorrant said she was upset her pregnant thoroughbreds were exposed to the chemical.
"It's a bit like running through an intersection and crashing into someone and saying 'oh yeah, sorry'. I want to know what happens if there is something wrong when these foals are born."
While KVH recommended Serenade Max to growers, the organisation did not communicate its potential hazards to to them.
"Applicators are trained in the handling of pesticides and as such, would know to read the label of the spray being used and to follow such instructions," the spokeswoman said.
Growers were responsible for Serenade Max's application, she added.
"There are spray protocols in place and spray applicators are trained on the use of all agrichemicals."
Serenade Max is approved for use in New Zealand.