Sources of the Data

Abstract

The original “ARS pesticide database” was compiled by ARS Soil Scientist Ralph Nash for research purposes but was never published. The data were compiled on paper forms by Nash and, after conversion to electronic records, became the nucleus of this database. Hornsby and Rao and their colleagues of the University of Florida have collected a large amount of data [129,223,234–237]. In addition to the primary literature, excellent compilations of some of the parameters are available, and these publications remain the only source of some values. The Weed Science Society of America Herbicide Handbook [325–327], a result of voluntary industry submissions of information on herbicides, has data on solubilities, vapor pressures, and, in some cases, persistences. The Royal Society of Chemistry Agrochemicals Handbook [245,246], and the British Crop Protection Council Pesticide Manual [32–34] continue the British tradition of pesticide science with a physical-chemical emphasis, giving high-quality solubilities, vapor pressures, Chemical Abstract Service Reference Numbers, molecular weights, and formulas for most pesticides. Trademark, formulation, and detailed use information are available from the Crop Protection Chemicals Reference [47], which is a collection of product labels. However, all manufacturers are not included. The Farm Chemicals Handbook [195,196] is the most complete cross-referenced listing of pesticides new and old and their uses and properties. These handbooks also contain much toxicological, chemical, and other information not covered here.