Nebraska Spray Drift Rules Explained

By Scout Nelson

Ecological spray drift buffer requirements are a key part of pesticide compliance under the Endangered Species Act in Nebraska. When applying to Enlist One or Liberty ULTRA, applicators must follow mandatory buffer distances set by the Environmental Protection Agency and clearly stated on product labels.

These buffer requirements are legally enforceable and designed to protect nearby sensitive areas such as specialty crops and natural habitats. Applicators must carefully review labels before spraying, as label directions override other mitigation tools or calculators.

For Enlist One application, spray drift mitigation options were established before national ESA strategies were finalized. As a result, only label specified buffer distances apply. No mitigation menu or calculator should be used. Required buffer distances are either 30 feet or zero feet, depending on label conditions.

When a 30-foot downwind buffer is required, it must be maintained between the spray area and any sensitive site. Certain areas, such as roads, planted crop fields not labeled as susceptible, prepared fields, or permanent structures, are excluded. Applications must not occur if wind is blowing toward sensitive areas, even with a buffer in place.

The Enlist One label also includes detailed requirements for approved nozzle types, operating pressures, and allowable tank mix products. These specifications were tested during product registration and must be followed exactly to remain compliant and reduce drift risk.

For Liberty ULTRA, the standard ground application buffer is at least 10 feet when using medium or coarser spray droplets. Boom height must not exceed 24 inches above the ground or crop canopy. Under specific drift reducing practices, including approved additives, hooded sprayers, drop nozzles, or qualified windbreaks, the buffer distance may be reduced to zero feet.

Aerial application requirements differ from ground applications and must be taken directly from the product label. All allowable buffer reductions must be confirmed on the label to avoid noncompliance.

Applicators are encouraged to review state resources such as Nebraska DriftWatch before spraying. Checking wind direction, nearby crops, and sensitive plantings helps prevent off target movement and ensures safe and compliant pesticide use.

Photo Credit: istock-fotokostic