Now is a good time to make sure you're ready by completing this quick checklist. This list focuses primarily on being ready for pesticide applications and is not all-inclusive, I welcome any additions for continued improvement. Please email suggestion to Kerryr@udel.edu.

Applicator:

Make sure your applicator certification is current
Complete additional required training if you will be applying Paraquat or Dicamba products

Equipment and Sprayer Calibration:

Ensure output is what you are anticipating for coverage
Check for and replace worn nozzles that will be putting out more spray or spraying in and incorrect pattern
Check for and clean or replace clogged nozzles that will be putting out less spray and not providing adequate coverage
Check pressure value accuracy
Check your travel speed by setting up a travel distance based on your nozzle spacing
Make sure all hoses and fittings are in good shape and have no leaks or pin holes for spray material to go off target
Check strainers and other sprayer parts to make sure there are no clogs or kinks in hoses

Pesticides:

Take an inventory to make sure you have the adequate amount of the products you need
This is where recordkeeping comes in handy to see what you used in previous years
This may be especially critical this year to make sure your dealer has adequate supplies of what you need
Check pesticide storage area for leaking containers or any other potential concerns
If you use chemicals that require respiratory protection, you may want to consider alternatives that will provide the same control but not require respiratory protection
Because of the Coronavirus it is anticipated that there may be little or no N95 types of respirators available until late June

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):

Make sure you have adequate supplies of PPE that is in good condition as required by the labels of the pesticides being sprayed on your crops.
ORDER SUPPLIES EARLY – It is anticipated that because of the needs of medical personnel due to the coronavirus that some PPE will be in short supply…..ESPECIALLY N95 type respirators.