What is required to apply herbicides near water bodies?

• A. A Special Use Approval may be required depending on proximity and conditions.
• B. No approvals are ever required near water.
• C. A Special Use Approval is always required.
• D. Approval comes from the landowner only.

Answer: (A)

Protecting water quality is the main idea here. When herbicides are applied near water bodies, additional controls kick in because runoff or drift can harm aquatic life. A Special Use Approval is required only in certain situations—specifically, it may be needed depending on how close you are to the water and the particular site conditions (such as soil, drainage, weather, and the product’s potential to reach water). This recognizes that approvals aren’t automatic and aren’t needed in every case, but they are a regulatory option when proximity or conditions create a risk to water. The approval comes from the regulatory authority, not the landowner, and you must follow the product label and provincial rules to determine if it’s needed. If you’re outside the restricted area and the label allows it with standard precautions, you may not need a Special Use Approval.