One Drop, 30km: Authorities Warn Against Pesticide Use Near Streams, Wells, Or Before Rain

Monday, 8 September 2025 14:11

By Martin Osborne

Locals are being reminded that chemicals should only be applied where absolutely necessary, never before rainfall, and never near wells, drains, or streams.

Uisce Éireann and the National Pesticides and Drinking Water Action Group are warning pesticide users in Kildare to protect drinking water as the spraying season ends.

While pesticide detections in water have dropped by more than 50% since 2017, recent checks show the threat remains.

Even a single drop of pesticide can travel up to 30 kilometres in a watercourse.

Locals are being reminded that chemicals should only be applied where absolutely necessary, never before rainfall, and never near wells, drains, or streams.

MCPA herbicide products cannot be used from the end of September or October until March.

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