Ultra-low volume

The term Ultra-Low Volume (ULV) (spraying) is used in the context of pesticide application.

Ultra-low volume application of pesticides has been defined as spraying at a [http://www.dropdata.org/DD/definitions.htm#VAR Volume Application Rate] (VAR) of les than 5 L/ha for field crops or les than 50 L/ha for tree/bush crops [ [http://www.dropdata.org/iparc/matthews_files/matthews.htm Matthews, G.A.] (2000) "Pesticide Application Methods" 3rd Edition. Blackwell Science, Oxford. 432 pages.] . VARs of 0.25 - 2 l/ha are typical for aerial ULV application to forest or migratory pests.

ULV spraying is a well-established spraying technique [Maas, W. (1971) "ULV Application and Formulation Techniques". NV Philips Gloeilampenfabrieken, Eindhoven, NL. 165 pages.] and remains the standard method of locust control with pesticides and is also widely used by cotton farmers in central-southern and western Africa. It has also been used in massive aerial spraying campaigns against disease vectors such as the tse-tse fly.

A major benefit of ULV application is high work rate ("i.e." hectares that can be treated in a day), and it provides the best technical solution all (or some) of these conditions apply:
* large area of land to treat,
* rapid response required,
* little or no water for making pesticide tank mixtures,
* logistical problems for supplies,
* difficult terrain: poor access to target site.

See also

* [http://www.dropdata.org/DD/sprayers.htm#CDA ULV spraying equipment]
* aerial spraying
* locust control
* pesticide application

References