State Sen. Michael Frerichs (D-Champaign), Chairman of the Illinois Senate Agriculture and Conservation Committee, has called a hearing at the request of State Sen. David Koehler (D-Peoria) to hear testimony on the negative effects of chemical drift in Illinois. Many farmers in Illinois use aerial spraying, more commonly known as crop dusting, to fertilize crops and eliminate weeds and insects. The practice results in higher crop quality and yields. However, during the process of spraying, the wind can push these chemicals out of the designated spray area, effecting livestock, gardens and even people. Children, the elderly and individuals with asthma and related health problems can experience serious health consequences, and businesses like organic farmers can lose entire crops, resulting in extreme economic hardship.

The issue of chemical drift encompasses more than just aerial spraying. It also involves chemical runoff in Illinois waterways. Chemical runoff is a major cause of environmental degradation and can impede businesses like fisheries that rely on clean sources of water.

The hearing is being called to address the harmful effects of chemical drift from aerial spraying and to allow legislators to begin exploring suitable ways for farmers to continue using chemicals while minimizing harm to the surrounding environment.

"Agricultural chemicals are important tools for farming, but we need to ensure that their use does not have a negative impact on the surrounding environment," Frerichs said. "Although this practice has been in place for a long time, we are seeing its long term effects manifested in the health of our citizens and receiving complaints that existing guidelines are not sufficient. I am hopeful that this hearing will help us find a proper balance between efficient farming practices and health safeguards for our citizens."

Many constituents in Senator Koehler’s district have been affected by aerial spraying and are concerned about the future of this practice.

"I’ve been contacted by parents who are worried about the health of their children and organic farmers who are worried about the safety of their crops," Koehler said. "I asked Senator Frerichs to convene this hearing so that we could learn more about existing regulations and start working toward a compromise that will protect the livelihoods of farmers—traditional and organic—and the health of the farmers’ neighbors and the environment."

The hearing will take place on September 30th, at 10:00 AM in Room 409 of the State Capitol. The hearing is open to the public, individuals who are interested in submitting oral or written testimony to the members of the Committee should contact Chairman Frerichs' Springfield office at (217) 782-2507.