Introduced in 2021, the Ag Order 4.0 by the Regional Water Board regulates surface water regarding how growers must manage excessive levels of pesticides, nutrients and sediment identified in water sampling. The California Department of Food and Agriculture’s (CDFA) provides resources to assist Central Coast growers in understanding these pesticide requirements:

• Innovations in Managing Farm Runoff and Insecticides: A video by the Coalition for Urban Rural Environmental Stewardship (CURES), funded by CDFA’s Office of Pesticide Consultation and Analysis (OPCA), outlines Ag Order 4.0 requirements and effective practices like sprinkler management and spray drift reduction. Watch the video here.
• Developing Agricultural Pest Management Strategies with Reduced-Risks to Surface Water: OPCA and University of California scientists provide a study offering alternative pest management strategies tailored for specific crops, comparing their economic and environmental impacts. Read study here.

Growers are encouraged to explore these resources to ensure compliance and to choose solutions aligned with their operational needs and environmental responsibilities.