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Herbicide contaminated compost #764694

Asked July 29, 2021, 6:17 PM EDT

I purchased hay from a neighbor that I had unknowingly had been sprayed with Milestone to control Canada thistle. The hay was feed to sheep and then composted for a year and applied to a new garden. Tomatoes are affected the most but can also be seen in potatoes, peas, beans and eggplant. Bean seeds did not even germinate. Sweet corn, squash, pumpkins, brassicas, carrots, lettuce and beets seem unaffected. Question, is it safe to consume those vegetable that seem unaffected and what is the solution for the soil to correct it for next year? Also, does this have any effect on the lamb used for meat and also if the plant material from the garden can be fed to chickens and still be able to use their eggs safely? Thank you!

Lake County South Dakota

Expert Response

Alan, I wish we had good answers to your questions.  One I can answer:  According to the label there are no grazing restrictions following application of Milestone, so I think you would be ok with using your lamb or other grazing animals.  (The herbicide can actually be concentrated as it passes thru the animal because the animal is not absorbing it).  The label states that sensitive crops should not be planted for a year after application.  It does not seem to break down much in a compost pile, but if the soil is warm and moist, soil organisms will help break down the chemical.  I would dig up soil in one of the more affected areas late this fall or early next spring, bring it inside and plant beans in it to see how they do.  If they grow ok, it should be broken down sufficiently.  

I cannot comment on the safety of your vegetables, because this herbicide has not been tested for safety on them, so we have no basis for determining whether the vegetables are safe or not.

An Ask Extension Expert Replied July 29, 2021, 6:40 PM EDT

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