A campaign to counter the threat of a ban on metaldehyde slug pellets has been launched this week to drive home the message that farmers must change the way they use the product if they want to keep it.

Get Pelletwise is the brainchild of the Metaldehyde Stewardship Group (MSG) and has wide industry backing. The campaign will highlight the need for urgent action and will encourage best practice on farms and in the supply chain through training and slug pellet label changes.

Without a dramatic reduction in levels found in water, a ban, or at least severe restrictions, are certain, the MSG says. Metaldehyde accounts for about 80% of all slug pellet applications, and its loss would have a huge impact on arable production.

Since 2007 improved analyses carried out by water companies has detected the active ingredient is in rivers across the country – above the EU drinking water limit of 0.1ppb. Worried suppliers got together last April to form the MSG to reinforce the urgent need for best practice.

Unlike other pesticides, the chemical could only be partially removed during waterworks treatment, noted Bob Breach, an independent water consultant. “This throws the whole future for this molluscicide into question, unless urgent action is taken now.”

The levels detected – mostly 0.2-2ppb, but in one incident 9ppb, according to Water UK – pose no threat to human health or the environment, stressed Prof Breach. But water companies, by law, had to meet National and European standards for drinking water quality. “Prevention by catchment control is the only solution.”

Agronomist Colin Myram of the Metaldehyde Stewardship Group said high concentrations in raw surface waters were often linked to heavy rain and run-off from fields.

“But we don’t know how much is due to that, and how much is down to direct application into ditches, for example,“ he said.

Mr Myram predicted that users’ actions next autumn – when up to 10,000t of slug pellets might be applied – will determine metaldehyde’s fate.

“We know how important metaldehyde is to UK agriculture and horticulture – slugs are the number one pest – and no one wants to see it disappear.”

But it is clear that the water industry, the Environment Agency and the Pesticides Safety Directorate need to see big improvements in its overall use. To help ensure metaldehyde’s continued availability, a new MSG website www.getpelletwise.co.uk has been created.

Let’s hold on to metaldehyde

Farmers Weekly and FWi believes it is vital that metaldehyde remains at the forefront of the UK farmers’ crop protection armoury.

We, together with Crops magazine, are delighted to partner the Metaldehyde Stewardship Group to help promote the Get Pelletwise! campaign.

Look out for a host of articles, academies and posters to help keep you abreast of advice and developments throughout 2009. For more information visit www.getpelletwise.co.uk.