Metaldehyde Stewardship 

Working with the Metaldehyde Stewardship Group (MSG), MAuk are looking to protect the continuing use of metaldehyde, ensuring a future for proven, cost effective slug control with minimal environmental impact.

The MSG comprises of Lonza (the principal manufacturer of the active ingredient) and the major slug pellet formulators.

The aim of the group is to promote and encourage best practice use of metaldehyde slug pellets in agriculture, minimise environmental impact and, in particular, protect water.

New Maximum Application Rates 

The new best practice guidelines maintain the annual maximum advised dose rate for the calendar year at 700g. However, a new maximum single application rate of 210g metaldehyde per hectare has also been set, down from 250g. Additionally, the total recommended dose rate of metaldehyde applied from 1 August and 31 December is cut to 210g metaldehyde per hectare. For additional protection of water, suppliers / BASIS advisors may recommend rates reduced to 160 g a.s./ha or less.There was previously no restriction during this timeframe other than a maximum advised dose rate for the calendar year.

Makhteshim-Agan and Slug Pellet Stewardship 

As part of our continuing development programme, and with stewardship in mind, MAuk has specifically developed Gusto 3, a wet process pellet which rate for rate, gives the same excellent results as its predecessor.

The result is outstanding slug control, flexible dose rates and unrivalled baiting points, while delivering 40% less active ingredient. Gusto 3 provides more baiting points at low doses than other pellets on the market due to its accurate 2mm dimension.

For all the latest advice from the Metaldehyde Stewardship Group go to www.getpelletwise.co.uk