Pesticides move off the target site when they are sprayed,
whether inside or outside. When sprayed outside pesticides drift
on to nearby property resulting in off target residues. Buffer
zones can eliminate exposure from spray drift on to school
property. As a result, states require buffer zones around
schools. In order to adequately protect against drift, buffer
zones should, at a minimum, be established in a 2 mile radius
around the schools property. Aerial applications should have a
larger buffer zone, at least 3 miles encircling the school.
Buffer zones should be in effect at all times of the day. It is
especially important for spray restrictions to be in place
during commuting times and while students and employees are on
school grounds. Louisiana Advisory Commission on Pesticides,
section 149(B), restricts commercial aerial applications within
1,000 feet of any school grounds during normal school hours,
with the exception of aerial mosquito control applications.
Schools include, public or private, day o