As the slug pellet application season fast approaches, the agricultural industry is being urged to implement enhanced metaldehyde stewardship.

Alison Hall, from the Metaldehyde Stewardship Group (MSG), explains that while it was hoped that metaldehyde product re-registrations would come through ahead of the 2018 slug pelleting season, the process is still ongoing.

“There’s still no decision, but we’ve been making a strong case to the authorities as to how stewardship is delivering environmental benefits.

“Which means it’s more important than ever that agronomists, farmers and contractors advise upon and use the molluscicide responsibly this season,” she added.

4 key stewardship steps

Metaldehyde Stewardship Group

The Metaldehyde Stewardship Group formed in 2008 in response to metaldehyde being detected in catchments used for water abstraction.

The ‘Get Pelletwise’ stewardship campaign was launched to promote and encouraging best practice with metaldehyde slug pellets, to minimise environmental impacts and in particular protect water.

Due to increasing regulatory pressure, the stewardship campaign enhanced in 2017 to include steps to ensure maximum protection of birds and small mammals, as well as water.

Metaldehyde slug pellets must only be used as part of an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) programme to help minimise slug infestations and reduce the need for treatment.