Agricultural Chemicals and Radiation. Ag Ed Environmental Education Series.

The document is designed to be used as a resource in teaching vocational agriculture high school students about the environment. Agricultural chemicals are the major focus, with some attention to radiation. The importance of safety in agricultural chemical use is stressed, with descriptions of the pesticide label; protective clothing; respiratory devices; correct application, transporting, handling, and disposal of chemicals; and health hazards. Agricultural chemicals are described by type: insecticides, fungicides and bactericides, herbicides, nematicides, rodenticides, and mammalian biocides. Legislation and regulation of agricultural chemicals are discussed. Tolerances--their establishment and enforcement--are covered. Alternatives to agricultural chemicals are treated. The section on radiation deals with sources and effects of radiation. A 6-page glossary and a 23-item bibliography are appended. (MS)