Recordkeeping, Storage, Transport, and Disposal
Records
Keep application records for restricted-use pesticides and for commercial or public applications as required by federal and New Mexico rules. Record the product name and EPA registration number, amount used, date and time, location, crop or site, target pest, applicator identity, and other required details. Federal RUP records are generally retained for two years, but state requirements may be longer, so confirm current NMDA rules. Records help with investigations, liability, and resistance tracking.
Storage
Store pesticides in a locked, ventilated area away from food, feed, seed, and livestock. Keep products in original labeled containers with lids secure. Do not store near wells or surface water. Maintain a spill kit and keep absorbent material available. Inspect containers for leaks and rotate stock so older products are used first.
Transport
Secure containers so they cannot tip or leak. Do not transport pesticides with food, feed, or passengers in the same compartment. Check DOT requirements for quantities and placarding. Carry the label and emergency information.
Disposal
Triple-rinse or pressure-rinse empty containers, adding rinse water to the spray tank when the label allows. Puncture or crush containers as directed, then recycle or dispose of them according to label and local rules. Never burn or dump pesticides or rinsate illegally. Mix only what you can apply.
Traps
Questions often assume records are needed only for RUPs; commercial and public applications may also require records. Another trap is storing pesticides with feed or in unlabeled bottles.
Worked example
After spraying, record the date, field, product, EPA number, rate, total amount, applicator, and target pest before details are forgotten. If the label requires a 12-hour REI, note the time so workers can be excluded.