BASF Increases Support Of Aerial Applicators

BASF has increased support of Operation S.A.F.E. (Self-Regulating Application and Flight Efficiency) fly-ins and its collaboration with the National Agricultural Aviation Association (NAAA) by incentivizing aerial applicators who participate in Operation S.A.F.E. fly-ins. The provided financial support can be used by participating aerial applicators toward membership in NAAA or for new spray equipment.

“This program is certain to enhance professionalism in the aerial application industry whether it directs aerial applicators to join NAAA and access the library of education and communication stewardship services offered by the Association or equip their aircraft with new equipment to ensure precise applications,” says Andrew Moore, executive director of NAAA. “NAAA appreciates BASF for making this incentive program available.”

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Along with offering reliable, effective products like Headline fungicide to the agricultural aviation industry, this BASF program is part of ongoing stewardship efforts for aerial applicators, and the safe and proper application of its products. For more information, please visit the NAAA Web site at www.agaviation.org/opsafepage.htm or www.plant-health-pilots.com for the variety of resources BASF provides aerial applicators, including a schedule of upcoming Operation S.A.F.E. fly-ins beginning in early spring, an “Ask the Expert” section for your toughest aerial application questions and true flight stories from aerial applicators across the country.

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Operation S.A.F.E., developed in 1981 by NAAA and managed by the National Agricultural Aviation Research & Education Foundation (NAAREF), was designed to demonstrate that agricultural aviators recognize their responsibility to ensure precise agricultural chemical application, which is accomplished through Operation S.A.F.E. fly-ins. Operation S.A.F.E. clinics give operators and pilots the opportunity to test equipment with a trained analyst to help interpret the information and to recommend changes to improve performance. Held regularly throughout the year, the fly-ins help applicators learn about and comply with all pertinent legal requirements. In addition, participating applicators agree to submit voluntarily to an inspection of their aircraft and recognize the importance of using operating procedures to ensure:

  • Compliance with manufacturers’ mixing rates, application recommendations, and label requirements of agricultural chemicals.
  • Adequacy of safety procedures in storing and handling agricultural chemicals.
  • Compliance with flight safety procedures.

NAAA encourages every operator and pilot to participate in an Operation S.A.F.E. clinic annually.

“Operation S.A.F.E. fly-ins are a great opportunity for applicators and one of the best means of evaluating spray patterns, droplet size and application precision,” says Tony Goede, Plant Health Coordinator for BASF and recently certified Operation S.A.F.E. Analyst. “BASF also is working hard to increase participation and NAAA membership, for the good of everyone in the industry.”

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